If a company wishes to protect its brand, name, or logo in Dubai and other UAE emirates, it must complete the official trademark registration procedure through the UAE Ministry of Economy & Tourism by submitting the prescribed documents.
Trademark registration grants the owner exclusive rights to use the brand within the territory of the United Arab Emirates.
Trademark registration process in the UAE
The most common and convenient way to register a trademark is by submitting an electronic application through the official portal of the UAE Ministry of Economy. UAE legislation allows and recognizes electronic submission as the primary format for interaction with the registering authority.
The registration procedure includes the following stages:
- Application filing. An electronic application form is completed with the applicant’s details, and the required documents are uploaded.
- Application examination. After submitting the application, a government examination fee of AED 750 is paid. The application is reviewed by the relevant department of the Ministry of Economy, and a decision is usually issued within 20 working days from the filing date.
- Trademark publication. If the application is approved, the applicant pays a publication fee of AED 750. The approved trademark is published in the Official Trademark Bulletin, which is issued twice a month.
- Opposition period. From the date of publication, a 30-day period begins during which third parties may file an opposition to the trademark registration. If an opposition is filed, the applicant has the right to submit arguments in accordance with the established procedure.
- Final registration. If no opposition is filed, the final registration fee of AED 5,000 is paid. The trademark registration certificate is usually issued within 30 days after the end of the opposition period.
The total trademark registration timeframe in the UAE typically ranges from 7 to 12 months, depending on the examination process and the absence of objections.
Documents required for trademark registration
To file a trademark registration application, the following documents are required:
- a completed application form with applicant details;
- for individuals – passport details;
- for legal entities – company registration details;
- an electronic image of the trademark;
- a copy of a valid UAE business license (if the applicant is a company);
- a notarized power of attorney (if the application is submitted through a representative);
- Arabic translations of documents, if they are issued in another language.
Trademark registration restrictions
Trademark registration in the UAE is subject to restrictions on public order, morality, and the country's cultural norms. In particular, marks containing elements that contradict local traditions or legislation are not eligible for registration.
Each trademark undergoes mandatory examination for identity and similarity with previously registered trademarks within the relevant class.
Classes of goods and services
Trademark registration is carried out in accordance with the International Classification of Goods and Services (Nice Classification).
One application is filed for one class. Registration in multiple classes requires separate applications.
Trademark validity period
A registered trademark is valid for 10 years from the date of registration and may be renewed an unlimited number of times for subsequent 10-year periods, subject to payment of the applicable fees.
International registration
The United Arab Emirates is a party to the Madrid Protocol, which allows:
- trademark registration in the UAE through the WIPO international system;
- or using the UAE national registration as a base for international trademark protection expansion.
Professional support
If you have any questions regarding trademark registration in the UAE or would like to complete the procedure with professional support, please contact our specialists – we will be happy to assist you.
