The Role of NAFIS in ICV Certification and Why ‘Partner’ Registration Matters

Introduction

In the UAE, In-Country Value (ICV) certification is a cornerstone of national industrial and economic strategy. It encourages companies to prioritize local investment, employment, and sustainable practices. The NAFIS Program, however, plays a critical yet often overlooked role in this ecosystem. Understanding how NAFIS intertwines with ICV certification—and why registering as a ‘Partner’ on the platform is essential—can help companies navigate compliance while leveraging support and incentives.

What Is the NAFIS Program?

NAFIS, launched as part of the UAE’s “Projects of the 50,” is an initiative under the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council. It aims to enhance Emirati talent competitiveness by facilitating employment, training, and development in the private sector.

While its broader mandate spans employment creation, training, and pension benefits, NAFIS also plays a pivotal role in bolstering the Emiratization component within ICV certification processes.

Why NAFIS Partner Registration Is Now Mandatory for ICV Certification

Recent revisions to the ICV Supplier Certification Guidelines, effective from October 2023, now mandate that all private companies must register as ‘Partners’ on the NAFIS platform before they can obtain ICV certification.

The steps to register typically include:

1. Visiting the NAFIS website.
2. Signing in using UAE Pass.
3. Selecting ‘Private Sector’ as your organization type.
4. Completing company details: license number, contact info, sector, etc.
5. Submitting the information, and awaiting approval via email.

This step is not optional—even if a company currently employs no Emirati nationals, registration is still required.

How NAFIS Registration Enhances ICV Certification

Registering as a NAFIS Partner is about more than ticking a box. It unlocks direct access to NAFIS initiatives that directly improve ICV scoring:

• Emiratization Programs & Training
  Participation in competency-building and job placement programs enhances the Emiratization score—the ICV component measuring local employment and skills.
• Localization and Third-Party Spend
  Through initiatives like Tawteen, companies can build better supplier networks and local manufacturing capacities, thereby boosting spending within the UAE value chain.

These activities translate into measurable points in ICV calculations. Companies registered with NAFIS gain access to the programs that help drive improved ICV performance, which is particularly advantageous when competing for government contracts or tenders that prioritize high ICV scores.

Additional Strategic Benefits of NAFIS Partnership

Being a NAFIS Partner not only supports ICV certification; it also offers a suite of strategic advantages:

1. Access to Emirati Talent
   Companies can easily recruit qualified Emirati candidates via the NAFIS career portal, and participate in job fairs and recruitment initiatives.
2. Training Subsidies & Support
   Receive financial assistance for Emiratization initiatives and upskilling programs ICV Certificate.
3. Consultancy and Networking
   Firms benefit from HR best practices, workshops, and partnerships designed to attract and retain Emirati employees.

Summary: The Symbiosis Between NAFIS and ICV

Conclusion

The NAFIS Program has evolved into an indispensable part of the ICV certification ecosystem in the UAE. As of October 2023, companies must register as Partners on the NAFIS platform to be eligible for ICV certification. Beyond compliance, the registration opens doors to talent, training, and localization support that feed directly into higher ICV scores and better competitive positioning.

If you’re preparing for ICV certification, make NAFIS Partner registration one of your first action items—it’s foundational, strategic, and beneficial across the board.