Transforming Public Procurement: How DCT Abu Dhabi Achieved Significant Savings with Ivalua

Transforming Public Procurement: DCT Abu Dhabi's Success Story

In a remarkable journey of transformation, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has set a high standard in public procurement by achieving savings exceeding 400 million AED (over 100 million USD) for the years 2024 and 2025. This achievement was made possible through a strategic partnership with Ivalua, a leading spend management platform.

Navigating Through Transformation

As public-sector organizations often encounter a unique set of challenges, DCT Abu Dhabi was in need of a transformative shift in its procurement processes. By early 2024, the existing methods had evolved organically, leading to inconsistencies and inefficiencies. To address these issues, DCT Abu Dhabi recognized the necessity for a streamlined approach that would enhance both transparency and operational agility.

Fueled by external pressures to increase value in aligning with Abu Dhabi's ambitious Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to attract millions of visitors and generate significant economic output, the department took steps to redefine procurement as a catalyst for growth rather than merely a transactional function.

Key Steps in the Transformation

The centerpiece of DCT Abu Dhabi’s procurement transformation was the digitalization of its Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM) through Ivalua's intuitive platform. This innovative move not only automated many procurement processes but also significantly improved compliance monitoring. The department achieved a 92% maturity score in a recent Department of Government Enablement assessment, indicating a robust governance and assurance framework.

Efficiency Gains

The transformation resulted in a 23% reduction in procurement cycle times, enabling the department to respond more swiftly to market demands and stakeholder needs. Furthermore, compliance rates soared as procurement process violations plummeted from over 150 incidents in 2024 to nearly 10 annually, reflecting enhanced oversight and process adherence.

Khalifa Ahmed Al Marzooqi, the Director of the Supply Management Department at DCT Abu Dhabi, noted, “Our procurement transformation is not merely about efficiency; it is about establishing a visionary operating system to raise standards and embed fairness throughout government operations.”

Ivalua's Impact on Public Procurement

Ivalua’s platform played a crucial role in DCT Abu Dhabi's success, offering a unified and flexible solution that helped align procurement with strategic goals. According to Dan Amzallag, COO of Ivalua, the partnership showcases how innovative technology can revolutionize public sector procurement and enhance economic outcomes.

Looking Ahead

The achievements of DCT Abu Dhabi signal a crucial shift in how public organizations can leverage technology to enhance procurement efficiency and compliance. As Abu Dhabi continues to develop its tourism sector, DCT Abu Dhabi's approach serves as a model for both local and international public entities aiming to modernize their procurement practices. The commitment to continuous improvement and adherence to best practices is sure to create lasting value not only for the department but also for the wider UAE economy.

With these reforms in place, DCT Abu Dhabi is well-positioned to support the strategic objectives outlined in the Tourism Strategy 2030, aiming to significantly enhance visitor experiences while contributing positively to the national economy. The future is bright for DCT Abu Dhabi as it continues to set benchmarks in public procurement excellence.