As per the latest ‘UAE intellectual property (IP) sector performance report’ by The Ministry of Economy and Tourism in UAE, trademark registrations saw a growth of 39.12 percent by the end of 2024. It clearly reflects how in today’s competitive world, brand protection is a necessity.
For those who are planning to set up a business or expand operations in the UAE, there are many benefits of trademark registration. If you are wondering how to register trademark in UAE, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process.
Back to topWhat is a Trademark in UAE?
According to UAE’s ‘Federal Decree Law No. 36 of 2021 on Trademarks’, a trademark is a unique name, word, symbol, logo, letters, signatures, hallmarks, titles, pictures, patterns, any marks or group of marks that distinguishes your goods and services from other entities. Trademark registration in the UAE falls under the scope of intellectual property rights in UAE and is crucial for building brand identity.
Back to topWhat are the Benefits of Trademark Registration in UAE?
Before we dive into the process of registering a trademark, let us understand the benefits. In the UAE, the government has created strong legal frameworks for protecting intellectual property rights. These laws strongly align with international conventions like The Paris Convention.
Trademark registration in UAE is beneficial for:
- Protecting your brand against unauthorized use, imitation, or infringement.
- Granting exclusive rights to use the trademark for the registered goods and services within the UAE.
- Strengthening brand identity.
- Building customer loyalty and trust.
- Taking legal action against counterfeiters and infringers.
- Franchising, licensing, and brand expansion, both locally and internationally.
How to Register Trademark in UAE?
There are many legal steps involved in registering a trademark in the UAE. It is advisable to consult experts like Commitbiz who provide Intellectual property services in Dubai, UAE. Our professionals can help in navigating the legal requirements and involved process. Read the step-by-step process to know more:
Step 1: Trademark Search
Conducting a trademark search is the first step towards successful brand registration in UAE. You can check if your business’ brand name, logo, and symbol among other things is unique by performing a search through the UAE Ministry of Economy (MoE) database.
Step 2: Arrange Essential Documents
In this step, our team will help arrange the required documents. From helping fill the application form with all the necessary details about the trademark and providing a clear representation of the trademark and list of the products and services, we manage everything.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Once the documents are ready and the application is filled out, we submit the application through MoE’s online portal along with the payable fees.
Step 4: Get Initial Approval
After the application is submitted to the authorities, the relevant department under the MoE will inspect and check compliance with the trademark laws. If the application satisfies all the criteria, it will be approved for trademark publication in the UAE's official trademark bulletin and two local newspapers. It is a form of initial approval which allows third parties to raise any objections within 30 days. In case there are no oppositions, you can move to the next stage.
Step 5: Issuance of Certificate
Once the objection period lapses and there are no issues, you must pay the final registration fee. Once that is done, the Ministry shall issue the registration certificate.
Back to topValidity and Renewal of Trademark Registration in UAE
The validity of trademark registration in UAE is 10 years. The renewal of trademark registration can be done before three months of the expiry date to avoid penalties. It ensures that the trademark continues to get legal protection and ownership rights.
Back to topDocuments Required to Register Trademark in UAE
When it comes to trademark registration in the UAE, you are required to submit many essential documents. These include:
- Trademark application form
- Trademark logo in high resolution
- A copy of the commercial licence
- A copy of Emirates ID
- Power of Attorney and Priority document
- Passport copy of the authorised signatory
Why Commitbiz?
When planning for a business setup in the UAE, trademark registration should be a priority. Registering the trademark in UAE is like investing in your brand’s future. With years of experience, Commitbiz has assisted companies in the UAE in protecting their intellectual property. Our experienced experts can assist you at every stage of the trademark registration process, right from trademark search to obtaining approval. To find out more, contact us today!
Back to topWho can register a trademark in the UAE?
Any individual, company, or legal entity either local or international, engaged in commercial, industrial, or service activities can apply to register a trademark in the UAE.
Is trademark registration required for every Emirate separately?
No, separate trademark registration is not required for every Emirate.
Can you trademark a name internationally?
Yes, you can use the Madrid Protocol, administered by World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), to register your trademark globally.
