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4/25/24, 3:43 PM Ministry of Economy organises ‘National Forum for SMEs – Government Procurement’ – The Gulf Time Newspaper
more than AED 2.3 billion in value, available for small and medium enterprises. These entities utilised digital
platforms to present the terms of the tenders and contracts directly to Emirati entrepreneurs and forum

attendees, offering them guidance and support. Additionally, various initiatives supporting Emirati SME-
owners were introduced during the event. The forum also featured seven diverse dialogue sessions with a
total of 26 speakers participating in discussions.

The first session titled ‘Policies, legislation and initiatives to support SMEs’ showcased a number of
objectives outlined in Federal Law no. 2 of 2014 concerning SMEs. It emphasised their role in driving the

growth of Emirati SMEs, while also exploring the means to further cooperation and forge partnerships
between relevant government entities. The session was attended by Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Under-
Secretary of the Ministry of Economy; and Younis Haji Al Khoori, Under-Secretary of Ministry of Finance.

The second session, titled ‘Inspiring stories in the world of government tenders’ highlighted a collection of
success stories from owners of national SMEs. Attendees had the opportunity to hear about the challenges
and obstacles that these entrepreneurs encountered while securing bids and tenders from government

entities, along with the strategies they employed to overcome them. The session highlighted the tools these
entrepreneurs relied on to enhance their prospects of obtaining these tenders.

The third session, titled ‘From legislation to implementation: Policies and practices of supporting SMEs,’
explored the Ministry of Economy’s role in supporting Emirati entrepreneurs. It showcased the action plan
developed to achieve the objectives of the Government Procurements for Local SMEs performance

indicator. Additionally, the session highlighted the Ministry of Finance’s role in providing special benefits and
financial exemptions to national SMEs.

The next session titled ‘Enhancing opportunities and possibilities in government procurement’ presented a
range of tender and contract opportunities related to government procurement offered by federal entities and
national companies. Emirati entrepreneurs had the chance to familiarise themselves with these

opportunities, thereby improving their readiness to pursue and potentially secure these contracts. The
session raised awareness among entrepreneurs about the competitive nature of the procurement process

and provided insights into the application process for government tenders. Additionally, attendees received
valuable information about the federal supplier register system and important tips about the registration
process and completing tender documentation effectively.

The fifth session titled ‘Government initiatives to support national SMEs’ examined a range of initiatives
provided by federal entities to support projects led by Emirati entrepreneurs. These include the National

Program for SMEs and projects, the Digital Procurement Platform, as well as the ‘Hawafez’ Program and the
In-Country Value (ICV) program.
Yet another session, titled ‘How local government entities support national SMEs,’ discussed the support

provided by local government entities to SMEs. Participants had the opportunity to explore government
procurement programs in the UAE, along with the latest initiatives, partnerships, and the outcomes achieved

in supporting national projects.
Finally, the last session titled ‘How to become a professional supplier to government agencies’ underscored
the significance of establishing strategic relationships between Emirati SMEs and government officials. The

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