Registering a trademark with the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) takes about 6–12 months if there are no oppositions or errors in the application. Complex cases, such as those involving oppositions, may take up to 18 months.
The deadline for filing an opposition is 60 days from the publication of the application in the Saudi Arabia Official Intellectual Property Bulletin.
In Saudi Arabia, you can register word marks, figurative marks, combined marks, three-dimensional marks, sound marks, and certification marks, provided they are distinctive and comply with Sharia law. Marks contrary to Islamic values, public morality, or state symbols are prohibited.
The certificate is valid for 10 Hijri years (approximately 9.7 Gregorian years) from the registration date and can be renewed indefinitely every 10 Hijri years.
The owner has the exclusive right to use the mark commercially in Saudi Arabia, prohibit others from using similar marks, and transfer or license the trademark rights.
The filing fee is approximately $300–500 for one class of goods or services, including registration and publication fees. Additional costs may include legal services or fees for extra classes.
Use of the trademark is not mandatory, but non-use for 5 consecutive years after registration may lead to cancellation upon third-party request, as per the Trademarks Law.
If the trademark is not renewed within 10 Hijri years from the registration date, the registration is canceled. Reinstatement is possible within 6 months after the deadline by paying an additional fee.
Securing a trademark ensures that your brand identity remains unique and safeguarded against infringement. Saudi Arabia, with its rapidly growing economy and strategic location, presents a promising market for businesses worldwide. Registering your trademark in Saudi Arabia not only provides legal protection but also enhances your brand's value and credibility.
Registering your trademark in Saudi Arabia grants you exclusive rights to use the mark within the Kingdom. This legal protection helps prevent unauthorized use or imitation of your brand by competitors, ensuring that your business maintains its unique identity in the market.
A registered trademark provides you with the exclusive right to use the mark on your goods and services. This exclusivity is crucial in establishing and maintaining a strong brand presence in the Saudi market.
A registered trademark is an intangible asset that can significantly increase the value of your business. It can be licensed, franchised, or used as collateral, opening avenues for revenue generation and business expansion.
With a registered trademark, you can enter into licensing or franchising agreements, allowing other businesses to use your brand in exchange for royalties or fees. This can lead to expanded market reach and increased brand recognition.
In case of legal disputes over brand ownership or infringement, a registered trademark provides you with a solid legal standing. It serves as evidence of your ownership and can be instrumental in resolving conflicts efficiently.
Before filing a trademark application, it's advisable to conduct a preliminary search to ensure that your desired trademark is not already registered or in use. The Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) provides an online database for this purpose.
Once you've confirmed the availability of your trademark, the next step is to file an application with the SAIP. The application should include:
A clear representation of the trademark.
A list of goods or services to be covered by the trademark.
The applicant's details, including name, address, and nationality.
A Power of Attorney, if the application is filed through an agent.
After submission, the SAIP will examine the application to ensure it complies with all legal requirements. This includes checking for distinctiveness and ensuring that the trademark does not conflict with existing marks.
If the application passes the examination, it will be published in the Official Gazette. This publication allows third parties to oppose the registration within 60 days.
If no opposition is filed, or if any opposition is resolved in favor of the applicant, the SAIP will proceed with the registration and issue a certificate of registration.
To register a trademark in Saudi Arabia, the following documents are typically required:
A completed application form.
A clear representation of the trademark.
A list of goods or services to be covered.
A legalized Power of Attorney.
A copy of the applicant's identification or company registration documents.
The official fees for trademark registration in Saudi Arabia are as follows:
Filing fee: Approximately SAR 1,000.
Publication fee: Approximately SAR 1,575.
Registration fee: Approximately SAR 5,000.
Please note that these fees are subject to change, and it's advisable to check the latest fees on the SAIP website.
The protection period for a registered trademark in Saudi Arabia is 10 years, calculated according to the Islamic (Hijri) calendar. This equates to approximately 9 years and 8 months in the Gregorian calendar. The registration can be renewed indefinitely for successive 10-year periods.
To maintain the validity of your trademark, renewal applications should be submitted within the last year of the current protection period. A grace period of 6 months is allowed for late renewal, subject to additional fees.
To avoid cancellation, a registered trademark must be used in commerce within 5 consecutive years from the registration date. Failure to use the trademark within this period may lead to its cancellation upon request by any interested party.
Navigating the trademark registration process can be complex, especially for foreign applicants. Without professional guidance, you may encounter challenges such as:
Misclassification of goods or services.
Incomplete or incorrect documentation.
Delays due to procedural errors.
Increased risk of opposition or rejection.
ProfitMark offers comprehensive trademark registration services in Saudi Arabia, including:
Preliminary trademark search to assess availability.
Preparation and filing of application documents.
Representation before the SAIP.
Monitoring of application status and handling of any oppositions.
Assistance with renewal processes.
Over 13 years of experience in trademark registration.
Successful registrations in over 30 countries.
A team of international experts specializing in intellectual property.
Professional approach tailored to each client's needs.
Online services for remote processing.
Transparent pricing and fixed timelines.
Registering your trademark in Saudi Arabia is a strategic step towards protecting your brand and expanding your business in the Middle East. With ProfitMark's expertise, the process becomes straightforward and efficient. Don't delay securing your brand's future—contact us today to begin your trademark registration journey in Saudi Arabia.