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Registering a trademark with the UAE Ministry of Economy (Intellectual Property Department) takes about 12–18 months if there are no oppositions or errors in the application. Complex cases may take up to 24 months.
The deadline for filing an opposition is 30 days from the publication of the application in the Official Gazette of the Ministry of Economy.
In the UAE, you can register word marks, figurative marks, combined marks, three-dimensional marks, and sound marks, provided they are distinctive. Color marks and holograms may be registered if clearly represented, but marks contrary to Islamic norms or public morality are prohibited.
The certificate is valid for 10 years from the filing date and can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years.
The owner has the exclusive right to use the mark commercially in the UAE, prohibit others from using similar marks, and transfer or license the trademark rights.
The filing fee is approximately $1000–1500 for one class of goods/services, including publication fees. Additional costs may include fees for extra classes or legal services.
No, use is not mandatory, but non-use for 5 consecutive years after registration may lead to cancellation upon third-party request.
If the trademark is not renewed within 10 years from the filing date, the registration is canceled. Reinstatement is possible within 3 months after the deadline by paying an additional fee.
In the ever-evolving global marketplace, the protection of your brand on an international scale is vital. As businesses expand beyond borders, safeguarding a trademark becomes essential to ensure not only legal ownership but also market identity and consumer trust. Registering a trademark in the UAE, one of the most dynamic and rapidly growing markets in the world, offers many advantages. In this article, we will explore why registering a trademark in the UAE is important, the steps involved in the process, and how ProfitMark can assist you with seamless trademark registration.
With increasing globalization, protecting intellectual property (IP) across international markets is more crucial than ever. A strong trademark serves as the face of your business, distinguishing your products and services from those of competitors. Registering your trademark internationally ensures that you have the legal protection you need to maintain control over your brand.
For businesses looking to expand into new markets, registering trademarks in foreign countries like the UAE offers peace of mind and long-term security. It grants you the exclusive rights to use your brand, reduces the risk of infringement, and gives you the authority to challenge any unauthorized use.
The UAE is a leading global business hub with a thriving economy driven by commerce, finance, and innovation. With its strategic location as a gateway between the East and the West, the UAE offers a range of opportunities for businesses seeking to establish a presence in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Due to its favorable business environment, excellent infrastructure, and business-friendly government policies, the UAE attracts both local and international companies. The country is known for its rapid growth and diversified economy, with a strong emphasis on sectors like technology, manufacturing, real estate, retail, and tourism. For these reasons, businesses looking to tap into the Middle Eastern market must prioritize trademark registration in the UAE to protect their intellectual property.
Legal and Secure Business Operations
Registering your trademark in the UAE is essential for conducting business legally and safely. A registered trademark protects your brand, ensuring that only you have the right to use your logo, name, or other distinctive identifiers for specific goods and services. Without trademark registration, your brand could be vulnerable to infringement and misuse.
Protection from Copying and Unfair Competition
One of the key benefits of registering your trademark is the protection it offers against counterfeit products and unauthorized use by competitors. A registered trademark is a legal asset that grants you exclusive rights, making it easier to defend your brand against potential infringers. With the growing issue of counterfeit goods in many industries, securing your trademark helps maintain your brand’s integrity and reputation.
Exclusive Rights to Use Your Brand
When you register your trademark in the UAE, you gain exclusive rights to use your brand within the designated market. This means that no one else can legally use the same or a similar trademark in relation to the goods or services you offer. These rights are essential for building your brand’s identity and value in the market.
Increased Brand and Company Value
A registered trademark is an intangible asset that increases the overall value of your business. It helps in building consumer trust and loyalty, which is a key factor in growing your market share. Additionally, a registered trademark can be a valuable business asset when it comes to licensing, franchising, or selling your business.
Licensing and Franchising Opportunities
With a registered trademark, you open the door to licensing or franchising opportunities. By licensing your trademark to third parties, you can generate additional revenue streams while expanding your brand’s reach in new markets. Similarly, franchising allows you to replicate your business model and expand quickly without significant upfront investment.
Legal Advantage in Trademark Disputes
In case of a trademark dispute or if your rights are challenged, having a registered trademark gives you a significant legal advantage. A registered trademark is a recognized form of intellectual property under UAE law, and it can be used to assert your rights in court or settle disputes through arbitration or other legal means.
The process of registering a trademark in the UAE involves several important steps. Below is an overview of the key stages involved:
Pre-Registration Search
Before submitting your application, it is crucial to conduct a trade mark office search to ensure your trademark is unique and does not conflict with any existing trademarks. This search will help you identify potential conflicts and increase your chances of successful registration. A preliminary search can be done through the UAE Trademark Office or by using third-party services.
Filing the Application
Once you’ve completed your trademark search and ensured that the trademark is available, the next step is to file your application with the UAE Ministry of Economy, which oversees intellectual property matters. The application form requires the following details:
The trademark name/logo (e.g., tm logo or trademark logo).
A description of the goods or services the trademark will cover.
The applicant’s details, including name, address, and legal status.
The class of goods or services (according to the Nice Classification).
Examination by the UAE Trademark Office
Once the application is submitted, the UAE Trademark Office will examine the application for compliance with legal requirements. This includes checking whether the trademark is distinctive, not descriptive, and does not conflict with existing trademarks. If the application passes the examination, it will be published in the official UAE Trademark Journal.
Opposition Period
After publication, there is a 30-day opposition period during which third parties can object to the trademark registration. If no opposition is filed during this period, the trademark application moves to the next stage.
Issuance of the Trademark Certificate
If no objections are raised, the UAE Trademark Office will issue the registration mark, and the trademark will be officially registered. The trademark holder will receive a certificate confirming the registration of the trademark. The registration is valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely.
The documents required for registering a trademark in the UAE include:
A completed trademark application form.
A clear representation of the trademark (e.g., tm logo, trademark logo, or other visual elements).
A description of the goods and services the trademark will cover.
The applicant’s details (individual or company).
A power of attorney if filing through an agent.
The processing time for trademark registration in the UAE typically ranges from 6 to 12 months. This includes the examination, publication, and opposition period. In some cases, if there are no objections, the process can be completed faster.
Once registered, the trademark is listed in the UAE’s National Trademark Register, which is accessible to the public. This register serves as a record of all trademarks registered in the UAE and acts as a legal reference for trademark ownership.
While the process of registering a trademark in the UAE is relatively straightforward, there are some challenges to navigate:
Misclassifying goods or services could limit the trademark’s protection.
A failure to conduct a comprehensive search might lead to conflicts with existing trademarks.
Missing or incomplete documentation can result in delays or rejections.
Having professional legal support ensures that your trademark application is handled efficiently and in compliance with UAE regulations.
ProfitMark offers full support throughout the trademark registration process in the UAE, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience. Our services include:
Comprehensive Support from Start to Finish: We manage the entire trademark registration process, from preparing the documents to obtaining the official trademark certificate.
Trademark Search and Uniqueness Check: We conduct a thorough trademark name search to ensure your brand is unique and protectable in the UAE.
Document Submission Without Personal Presence: We handle all the document submission procedures on your behalf, ensuring convenience and speed.
Legal Support in Case of Objections or Disputes: If your trademark faces opposition, our legal team provides expert assistance to resolve any disputes and protect your rights.
Transparent Pricing and Fixed Timelines: We offer clear and competitive pricing with fixed timelines for the registration process.
Over 13 years of experience in trademark registration
Successful trademark registration in over 30 countries
Team of international experts
Professional approach to every client
Online service: everything can be done remotely
Guarantee of service quality
Don’t delay protecting your brand. Trademark registration in the UAE will safeguard your intellectual property rights and open new opportunities for growth. With ProfitMark, the process is simple, clear, and reliable.
Contact us today and secure the future of your business!