Trademark Registration in the UAE: Legal Process and Protection

16 Jul Trademark Registration in the UAE: Legal Process and Protection

In a competitive and brand-conscious market like the UAE, protecting your brand identity is not a luxury — it’s a legal necessity. Whether you’re a startup, SME, or multinational corporation, securing your trademark through proper registration can safeguard your business from imitation, infringement, and loss of market trust. In this article, we explore the legal process of trademark registration in the UAE and explain the rights and protections it offers under UAE law.

What is a Trademark?

A trademark is any distinctive sign that identifies the goods or services of one entity from another. It can include:

• Words

• Logos

• Names

• Slogans

• Designs

• Letters or numerals

• 3D marks or holograms

• Trade dress (in certain cases)

Under Federal Decree-Law No. 36 of 2021 on Trademarks, the UAE offers legal protection to registered trademarks, giving their owners exclusive rights to use, license, or take legal action against unauthorized usage.

Who Can Register a Trademark in the UAE?

The following entities can apply for a trademark in the UAE:

• UAE nationals and residents

• Local companies and business owners

• Foreign companies doing business in the UAE

• Authorized agents representing foreign brands

Note: Foreign companies not directly operating in the UAE must register through a licensed local agent or law firm.

Step-by-Step Trademark Registration Process in the UAE

1. Trademark Search (Recommended but Not Mandatory)

Before filing, it’s wise to conduct a search to check if a similar or identical mark is already registered. Though not required by law, this step can prevent future rejections and legal complications.

2. Filing the Application

Applications must be submitted online through the UAE Ministry of Economy portal. The following documents are typically required:

• Trademark logo (if applicable)

• Applicant’s trade license (if a business)

• Power of Attorney (if applying through an agent or law firm)

• Passport copy (if an individual)

• Priority documents (if claiming foreign priority)

3. Payment of Fees

The standard application fee is AED 750 (subject to change). Additional fees apply throughout the process, including publication and registration.

4. Examination by the Ministry

The Ministry of Economy reviews the application for compliance with the law. This process generally takes 30 to 60 days.

• If accepted, the trademark is published in the Official Gazette and two local newspapers.

• If rejected, you have the right to file an appeal within 30 days.

5. Publication & Opposition Period

Once published, the mark enters a 30-day opposition period, during which third parties may object to the registration. If no objections are raised, or objections are successfully defended, the process moves forward.

6. Final Registration & Certificate Issuance

If there are no objections, the trademark is officially registered. You will receive a registration certificate which includes:

• Trademark number

• Registration date

• Trademark owner details

• Description of goods/services

Validity and Renewal

• UAE trademarks are valid for 10 years from the date of filing.

• They can be renewed indefinitely for successive 10-year periods.

• Renewal applications must be filed within the last 6 months of validity, with a grace period available subject to a late fee.

Trademark Protection and Legal Remedies

Once registered, a trademark owner has exclusive rights to use the mark in the UAE. Protection includes:

• Right to prevent others from using identical or confusingly similar marks

• Legal enforcement through the UAE Courts

• Customs recordal to block counterfeit goods at borders

• Criminal penalties against infringers (including fines and imprisonment)

• Civil remedies, such as damages, injunctions, and destruction of infringing goods

Common Reasons for Rejection

Some trademarks are legally prohibited from registration, such as:

• Marks that are misleading, deceptive, or contrary to public order

• Generic or non-distinctive terms

• Flags, emblems, or symbols of countries or international organizations

• Identical or confusingly similar marks already registered

Why Work With a Trademark Lawyer?

Although the trademark registration process in the UAE is well-defined, the examination process is strict, and any misstep can lead to delays or rejections. A qualified UAE trademark lawyer can help by:

• Conducting a professional trademark search

• Drafting and filing a legally sound application

• Handling oppositions or appeals

• Monitoring renewal deadlines

• Enforcing your trademark rights through legal action if needed

Final Thoughts

Your trademark is more than just a symbol — it represents your reputation, value, and identity in the marketplace. Registering your trademark in the UAE gives you powerful legal tools to protect what you’ve built and paves the way for long-term brand success.

At GCC Law, we help local and international businesses secure and protect their trademarks across the UAE and wider GCC region. Whether you’re filing a new trademark or enforcing an existing one, our team provides end-to-end legal support with speed, clarity, and precision.

Get in touch with our team today to begin your trademark registration journey.