The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Department of Government Enablement (ADDGE), has launched the Abu Dhabi Golden Vendor List as part of the Abu Dhabi Local Content (ADLC) Programme. The initiative expands the scope of the original Golden List to enhance local procurement, support industrial development, and drive sustainable economic growth.
The updated Golden Vendor List now includes over 145 industries and covers 74% of the government’s product-based procurement needs. It integrates internationally recognised Harmonized System (HS) codes to classify products, enabling streamlined transactions and greater efficiency in procurement processes. Local suppliers listed under the program are positioned to meet government demand more effectively, with plans to extend the initiative to include services with high government demand.
Under the new framework, the list is incorporated into Abu Dhabi’s government tendering process. Commercial evaluations will now allocate scores based on participation in the Abu Dhabi Local Content Programme, with the Golden Vendor List’s contribution expected to increase over time. This approach aims to prioritise local suppliers and increase their role in government procurement, aligning their capabilities with public sector requirements.
The Golden Vendor List aims to enhance the contribution of local businesses to Abu Dhabi’s economic objectives. Companies included in the list are encouraged to increase their purchases from local suppliers, bolster the local manufacturing sector, employ Emirati nationals, and invest in research and development (R&D). This initiative is seen as a key driver for fostering innovation, creating jobs, and supporting a diversified, non-oil economy.
Supporting local industries
The Golden Vendor List provides a structured approach to leveraging government spending in support of local industries. It promotes transparency in government tenders, enabling investors and suppliers to strengthen local supply chains. The list also encourages the adoption of new technologies and investment in R&D, fostering a culture of innovation across Abu Dhabi’s industries.
The program contributes to Abu Dhabi’s long-term economic strategy by enhancing the competitiveness of its non-oil sectors. By prioritising local content, the initiative drives job creation and upskilling opportunities for the workforce, while also supporting the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and larger industrial players.
Economic goals
The launch of the Golden Vendor List aligns with Abu Dhabi’s broader objectives of economic diversification and sustainable development. It serves as a tool to strengthen the emirate’s industrial base, enhance the capabilities of local businesses, and reduce reliance on oil revenue. The updated list positions Abu Dhabi as a leader in integrating local content within government procurement frameworks, ensuring a resilient and diversified economy.
