Trademark registration in UAE is an essential step for businesses looking to protect their brand name, logo, or slogan. Registering a trademark ensures legal ownership and prevents others from using or copying it. This guide explains the UAE trademark registration process, requirements, and steps to secure your trademark.
What is Trademark Registration in UAE?
Trademark registration in UAE is the process of legally securing a brand’s identity. It gives businesses exclusive rights to use their name, logo, or design and prevents unauthorized use by competitors. The UAE follows Federal Decree-Law No. 36 of 2021 on Trademarks, which governs trademark protection.
Who Can Apply for Trademark Registration in UAE?
- UAE businesses – Companies with a valid UAE trade license.
- Foreign businesses – Must register through a UAE trademark agent.
- Individuals – Can apply for personal brands with proper documentation.
What Can Be Trademarked in UAE?
Businesses can register:
✔ Brand names
✔ Logos and designs
✔ Slogans and taglines
✔ Symbols and packaging
✔ Sound marks (unique sounds linked to brands)
What Cannot Be Trademarked in UAE?
🚫 Generic or descriptive terms
🚫 Religious symbols or texts
🚫 Flags or national emblems
🚫 Names of international organizations
🚫 Well-known brand translations
Step-by-Step Process for Trademark Registration in UAE
1. Trademark Search
Before applying, check if the trademark is available. You can search for existing trademarks on the UAE Ministry of Economy’s website.
2. Prepare Required Documents
To apply for trademark registration in UAE, you need:
✔ Trademark image (logo or brand name)
✔ Trade license copy (for businesses)
✔ Passport copy (for individuals)
✔ Power of Attorney (if using an agent)
✔ List of goods/services covered by the trademark
3. Submit the Trademark Application
Applications are submitted online through the UAE Ministry of Economy website.
4. Examination & Approval
The Trademark Office reviews the application to check for conflicts. If accepted, the trademark is published in the UAE Trademark Journal and two local newspapers.
5. Opposition Period (30 Days)
Third parties have 30 days to oppose the trademark if they believe it conflicts with theirs.
6. Trademark Registration Certificate
If there are no objections, the UAE Ministry of Economy issues the Trademark Registration Certificate, giving you exclusive rights for 10 years.
Trademark Validity & Renewal in UAE
- A registered trademark in UAE is valid for 10 years.
- Businesses must renew the trademark before expiry to maintain protection.
Trademark Protection & Monitoring in UAE
After trademark registration in UAE, businesses must monitor the market to prevent infringement.
✔ Check for new trademark filings that may conflict with yours.
✔ Take legal action against unauthorized use of your trademark.
✔ Use the trademark – if unused for 5 years, it may be canceled.
Trademark Classification in UAE
Businesses must choose the correct trademark class when applying. The UAE follows the Nice Classification System, which includes:
📌 34 classes for goods (e.g., fashion, electronics, food)
📌 11 classes for services (e.g., consulting, legal, transport)
Selecting the right trademark class ensures full legal protection.
International Trademark Protection from UAE
Businesses looking to expand globally can register through the Madrid Protocol.
✔ One application covers multiple countries
✔ Managed by WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization)
✔ Reduces costs and paperwork
Note: You must first register a trademark in UAE before applying internationally.
Why Trademark Registration in UAE is Important
✔ Exclusive rights – Prevents competitors from using your brand name.
✔ Legal protection – Allows businesses to take legal action against trademark infringement.
✔ Brand credibility – A registered trademark builds customer trust.
✔ Business expansion – Essential for franchising and licensing.
Conclusion
Trademark registration in UAE is a crucial step for businesses to protect their brand identity. Whether you’re a startup, an e-commerce brand, or an established business, securing your trademark ensures that no one else can use or copy your brand name.
For a smooth trademark registration process, ensure you conduct a trademark search, file the application correctly, and monitor your trademark after approval.Need assistance with trademark registration in UAE? Get expert guidance today!
