Trademark registration in the UAE

It is widely believed among entrepreneurs and investors that registering a trademark in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) provides significant business benefits. Is it really so? Together with Antwort Law, we invite you to objectively evaluate the real legal features, opportunities and advantages of this country and find out whether it is worth registering a trademark in the UAE.

Why is trademark registration in the UAE attractive?

The UAE is one of the world's leading commercial centers, making it an attractive place for business. Registering a trademark here protects your intellectual property and helps increase brand recognition in the international market. However, it is important to understand the specifics of this process and the potential challenges you may face.

Features of trademark registration in the UAE:

Trademark registration in the UAE has a number of specific features:

1. Absence of a separate state structure: trademark or copyright registration is carried out directly through the UAE Ministry of Economy.
2. Application in the name of a legal entity or a private person: an application can be submitted by both a legal entity and an individual.
3. Use of the Nice Classification: registration is carried out in accordance with the Nice Classification of products with special provisions for classes 32 and 33 (alcoholic beverages are not subject to registration in the UAE).
4. Class restrictions: one trademark can only be registered for one class of products, i.e. one trademark cannot be registered for more than one class.

In order to avoid risks of similarity of your mark with already registered marks, it is necessary to carry out preliminary work to identify identical symbols. One of the most common reasons for refusal to register a trademark in Dubai is similarity with priority designations. It is important to note that the paid duty (the amount of the registration fee in the UAE is one of the highest in the world) is not returned to the applicant in case of refusal.

Those who plan to register a trademark in the UAE should know that it is forbidden to use elements of state symbols, symbols of organizations with international status, names and images of people without official consent. If signs of violation of moral and religious principles are found in the new trademark, registration will be refused.

The content of symbols, text inscriptions and images should not offend Muslim culture and traditions. What is common and normal in Europe may have a different meaning in the UAE, so it is important to seek the help of a competent consultant who knows the local specifics well.

To register a trademark in the UAE, it is necessary to prepare the following documents:

• A copy of the trademark image in black and white on paper and in digital format (JPEG file).
• A detailed description of the company's products or services.
• Power of attorney to submit the application, if it is not possible to be present at the place of registration (if the document is not issued in the UAE, it must be certified by the local embassy or consulate).
• Company registration certificate (license).
• Identity documents, if the applicant is an individual (passport, identification code).
• A document confirming the registration of the trademark in other countries (if the registration was already carried out in other jurisdictions).
• A payment document confirming the payment of duty.
• Translation of names containing the trademark (in English and Arabic).

Registration deadline:

The process of registering a trademark in the UAE usually takes from 6 months.

Registering a trademark in the UAE can be an important step in protecting your business and enhancing its reputation internationally. However, it is important to approach this process with an understanding of all the legal features and challenges. If you are planning to register a trademark in the UAE or need advice on the optimal legal structure for your business, contact our experts. The Antwort Law team is ready to provide comprehensive legal support and help you find the best solution for your needs.

Olena Deilid

Junior Legal Secretary