Dubai SME Facilitates Dhs 1.29 Billion in Contracts in 2024

Dubai SME, a division of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, reported that its Emirati Supplier Programme secured Dhs 1.29 billion in contracts for Emirati SMEs during 2024. The figure underscores the government’s ongoing efforts to empower local firms and aligns with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to double the emirate’s economy by 2033, and supports the UAE’s Year of Community.

In 2024, government entities such as the Roads & Transport Authority, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police, and Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism awarded Dhs 652.8 million worth of contracts to Dubai SME members. Semi-government bodies – notably Emirates Group, Emirates Flight Catering, and Dubai Holding – contributed Dhs 347.7 million, while federal agencies including Emirates Health Services, the Ministry of Education, and MoHRE provided Dhs 94.6 million. The private sector, led by Union Coop, Carrefour, and Emaar, added Dhs 198.9 million.

Since its launch in 2002, the programme has disbursed over Dhs 12 billion in contracts, mandating that government-related entities allocate at least 10% of their procurement to Emirati-owned businesses. By embedding national firms into both public and private sector supply chains, the initiative directly supports D33’s goals of diversification, SME growth, and increased non-oil GDP contribution.

Acting CEO Ahmad Al Room Almheiri highlights that more than 970 Emirati businesses are currently registered with the programme, reflecting growing private-sector participation and confidence in local SMEs. He adds that professional service and technical supplies were the top-performing sectors, with services accounting for 52% of contracts and commerce 45%.

By offering procurement opportunities and tailored support like mentorship, training, and financing, the Emirati Supplier Programme bolsters Dubai’s SME ecosystem and positions Emirati companies to compete on a global scale—reinforcing Dubai’s role as a model for entrepreneurial empowerment and accelerated growth.