Registering a trademark with the Industrial Property Office under the Ministry of Industry and Trade 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 90 days from the publication of the application in the Official Gazette.
In Yemen, you can register word marks, figurative marks, combined marks, and three-dimensional marks, provided they are distinctive. Marks contrary to Islamic principles, public morality, or state symbols 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 Yemen, prohibit others from using similar marks, and transfer or license the trademark rights.
The filing fee is approximately $300–600 for one class of goods/services, including registration and publication fees. Additional costs may include legal services or fees for extra classes.
No, use is not mandatory, but non-use for 5 consecutive years after registration may lead to cancellation upon third-party request, as per Article 29 of the Trademarks Law.
If the trademark is not renewed within 10 years from the filing date, the registration is canceled. Reinstatement is possible within 6 months after the deadline by paying an additional fee.
Yemen, strategically located in the Arabian Peninsula, offers a unique market for businesses seeking expansion in the Middle East. Registering a trademark in Yemen not only secures legal rights but also enhances brand value and fosters business growth.
Registering your trademark in Yemen provides exclusive rights to use your brand, protecting it from unauthorized use and imitation. This legal safeguard is crucial in maintaining brand integrity and consumer trust.
A registered trademark in Yemen is legally recognized, granting the owner the right to take legal action against infringers. This recognition is vital for enforcing rights and resolving disputes effectively.
Trademark registration enhances the perceived value of your brand, making it more attractive to investors and partners. It signifies a commitment to quality and professionalism.
With a registered trademark, businesses can enter into licensing and franchising agreements, expanding their reach and generating additional revenue streams.
A unique and registered trademark differentiates your products or services from competitors, establishing a strong market presence.
To initiate the trademark registration process in Yemen, the following documents are required:
Trademark Representation: A clear depiction of the trademark (logo, wordmark, etc.).
Applicant Details: Name, address, and nationality of the applicant.
List of Goods/Services: A detailed list of goods or services associated with the trademark, classified according to the Nice Classification system.
Power of Attorney: A legalized Power of Attorney, duly notarized and legalized by the Yemeni Consulate or any other Arab consulate.
Priority Document (if applicable): A certified copy of the priority document with its Arabic translation, submitted within six months from the priority date.
Once the application is submitted, the Yemeni Intellectual Property Office (YIPO) conducts a formal examination to ensure compliance with legal requirements. If the application meets all criteria, it is published in the Official Trade Gazette (Al-Tijarah) for public opposition.
After publication, there is a 90-day opposition period during which third parties can challenge the registration. If no opposition is filed, or if the opposition is resolved in favor of the applicant, the trademark proceeds to registration.
Upon successful registration, the applicant receives a trademark registration certificate, granting exclusive rights to use the trademark in Yemen.
Trademark protection in Yemen is valid for ten years from the filing date. Renewals can be filed within the last year of the current validity term and may be renewed indefinitely for successive periods of ten years each. A grace period of 12 months is allowed for late renewal without additional fees.
In October 2024, Yemen's trademark offices in Sana'a and Aden adopted the 12th edition of the Nice Classification of Goods and Services. This update allows applicants to classify their trademarks based on the most current global standards, facilitating international consistency in trademark registration.
Previously, Yemeni trademark applications were limited to four goods or services per application. As of January 2025, this restriction has been lifted, allowing applicants to include an unlimited number of goods or services in a single application. However, a 5% surcharge applies to each item exceeding the initial ten items listed.
In October 2024, the Sana'a Intellectual Property Office launched an online platform for trademark services. This platform enables users to file applications, record amendments, and access the Official Trademark Gazette digitally, streamlining the registration process and improving efficiency.
Navigating the trademark registration process in Yemen can be complex due to legal requirements and procedural nuances. Without professional guidance, businesses may encounter challenges such as:
Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation: Missing or improperly prepared documents can lead to application rejection or delays.
Failure to Meet Legal Requirements: Non-compliance with Yemeni trademark laws can result in legal disputes or loss of rights.
Handling Oppositions: Responding to third-party oppositions requires legal expertise to ensure a favorable outcome.
ProfitMark offers comprehensive trademark registration services in Yemen, providing:
Full Support: Assistance from application preparation to certificate issuance.
Trademark Search: Conducting thorough searches to ensure the uniqueness of your trademark.
Document Submission: Handling all paperwork and submissions on your behalf.
Legal Representation: Offering legal support in case of oppositions or disputes.
Transparent Pricing: Clear and fixed pricing with no hidden fees.
Experience: Over 13 years in the trademark registration industry.
Global Reach: Successful registrations in over 30 countries.
Expert Team: A team of international experts dedicated to your brand's protection.
Client-Centric Approach: Professional service tailored to each client's needs.
Online Services: Convenient online platform for remote processing.
Quality Assurance: Commitment to delivering high-quality services.
Registering your trademark in Yemen is a strategic move to protect your brand and expand your business in the Middle Eastern market. With ProfitMark's expertise, the registration process becomes straightforward and secure. Contact us today to safeguard your brand's future in Yemen.