Abu dhabi: du, the leading telecom and digital service provider, today signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) to support and advance the UAE's In-Country Value (ICV) program. The agreement was signed by Hasan Al Nowais, Undersecretary of MoIAT, and Fahad Al Hassawi, Chief Executive Officer at du, during the 5th edition of Make it in the Emirates (MIITE), underscoring the shared commitment to accelerating national industrial growth and economic resilience.
According to Emirates News Agency, as part of this agreement, du will join the ICV program which establishes a framework for collaboration aimed at enhancing the local supply chain, increasing the contribution of local products and services, and reinforcing the role of the private sector in advancing the UAE's industrial priorities and global competitiveness. Participation in the program is expected to foster growth and competitiveness of the UAE's industrial sector both locally and internationally.
Hasan Al Nowais, Undersecretary at MoIAT, commented: "This partnership strengthens the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology by directing demand and procurement opportunities through the ICV Program towards local companies and the national economy, and supporting the localization of vital and priority industries." He further noted that these partnerships will strengthen local supply chains, build a more competitive industrial base, and develop national capabilities across strategic sectors, reinforcing the UAE's position as a global hub for advanced industry. Since its launch, the ICV Program has redirected more than AED 473 billion into the national economy.
Fahad Al Hassawi, Chief Executive Officer at du, remarked on the agreement's significance: "As a national company, we are committed to playing a pivotal role in advancing the UAE's economic vision. This partnership reflects our dedication to strengthening local ecosystems, empowering suppliers, and investing in national talent. By embedding ICV principles into our operations, we are contributing to a more resilient, competitive, and future-ready economy aligned with the country's long-term ambitions."
The agreement highlights the importance of effective collaboration between government entities and the private sector in accelerating sustainable industrial development, fostering innovation, and enhancing national capabilities. It also establishes a scalable framework for integrating ICV principles across sectors, supporting broader private sector participation, and delivering measurable impact in line with the UAE's economic transformation and industrial growth goals.
This announcement comes as part of du's participation in the platform, where its operating sub-brand 'du Tech' is a strategic partner, showcasing a portfolio of advanced digital solutions and platforms designed to drive transformation, enhance operational efficiency, and support the UAE's transition towards a future-ready, technology-driven, and self-sufficient economy.
