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Hi Dubai
15-07-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Protect Your Ideas: Trademark Registration in Dubai
Dubai's reputation as a global business hub comes with intense market competition. In this dynamic environment, a trademark (your brand's name, logo, or slogan) becomes a legal shield, marketing tool, and intangible asset. Trademark registration in Dubai grants exclusive rights, offering essential protection from copycats and fortifying your brand's credibility. Beyond safeguarding against misuse, it also enables involvement in international trade, brand licensing, and customs enforcement. In this article, we will discuss the 2025 trademark landscape in Dubai and the wider UAE. Drawing from official sources like the UAE Ministry of Economy, Dubai Customs, and Abu Dhabi's we will outline every stage from concept and registration to enforcement and renewal. Whether you're a startup, SME, or international enterprise, this article equips you with accurate, actionable insights to confidently protect and grow your brand. Why Trademark Registration Is Essential Legal Ownership and Enforcement A registered trademark legally belongs to the owner and grants exclusive use of that mark in commerce. Under Federal Decree-Law No. 36 of 2021, this allows you to prevent unauthorised use and challenge infringements in UAE courts. Courts now have specialised IPR divisions handling cases more efficiently. Building Consumer Trust and Brand Equity A trademark signals credibility. Consistent branding increases customer recall and loyalty. Such brand equity can transform into real value, whether through licensing deals, franchising, mergers, or as collateral in financing agreements. Strategic Asset and Valuation Trademarks appear as assets on balance sheets and drive brand valuation. By registering internationally via the Madrid Protocol, UAE-based companies can expand their IP portfolio with ease. Customs-Level Protection Dubai Customs allows trademark owners to register their trademarks for customs protection (AED 210 per class). During inspections, if suspect imports arise, customs can seize them, helping protect your brand right at the border. Deterrence and Competitive Edge A registered mark appears in the UAE Trademark Journal, alerting competitors to infringement risks. This active disclosure discourages trademark violations before they occur. What Can and Cannot Be Registered Eligible Marks under UAE Law As defined by Law No. 36 of 2021, trademarks encompass: Words, names, slogans, letters, or numbers Logos, graphic designs, three-dimensional shapes Holograms, sounds (with audio submissions), and even scents (with chemical descriptions) Dubai Customs requires clear visual and/or audio-visual representations during recording. Restrictions on Registration The law prohibits marks that are: Nondistinctive: generic or purely descriptive Misleading or immoral: violating public order or decency Conflicting: infringing on personal names, flags, religious or national symbols It also prohibits marks identical/similar to existing ones or conflicting with collective certification marks. Non-Traditional Trademarks You can register unique non-traditional trademarks so long as they meet strict compliance criteria: Sound marks require musical notation or spectrogram submissions. Colour marks require precise definitions (e.g., Pantone code). Three-dimensional shapes must be shown from multiple angles. Who Can Apply Eligible Applicants Natural individuals or companies, UAE-based or foreign Local residents and national companies Foreign applicants must file via a UAE-registered agent and submit a notarised, legalised Power of Attorney (PoA) within 30 days. Roles Defined Owner : Holds exclusive rights to the trademark. : Holds exclusive rights to the trademark. Agent : UAE-based entity authorised to file on the owner's behalf. : UAE-based entity authorised to file on the owner's behalf. Legal Attorney: Authorised to enforce rights or initiate litigation Pre-Application Preparation Trademark Ideation Consider: Brand meaning: relevance to values and customer appeal? Distinctiveness: Does it set you apart in your industry? Ease of global expansion: multilingual compatibility in Arabic/English. Abu Dhabi IP Unit ( recommends combining ideation with strategic considerations like territorial and linguistic coverage. Comprehensive Trademark Search Before filing, perform: A search of the UAE Ministry of Economy's trademark database International databases (e.g., TMview) Check for phonetic and visual similarities. This reduces the risk of rejection or opposition. Classification of Goods/Services Identify correct classes per the Nice Classification—misclassification could lead to application refusal or require costly re-filing. Finalising the Design Ensure you have: High-resolution images or Pantone colour specs For 3D marks: depictions from multiple views For sounds: submission of musical notation or spectrogram The Trademark Registration Process Filing (Months 0–1) File online via the Ministry of Economy e-Services (UAE PASS login). Submit: Trademark representation Business license or personal ID Power of Attorney (if applicable) List of goods/services + Nice Classification Applicable fees (AED 750 for filing + AED 750 for publication). Examination (Months 1–2) Formal : Check if all documents and payments are correct. : Check if all documents and payments are correct. Substantive: The Ministry examines distinctiveness and compliance. Completed within 90 days. If approved, it proceeds to publication. Publication for Opposition (By Month 3–4) The mark is published in the Trademark Journal and optionally in local newspapers. Third parties have 30 days to file an opposition. Opposition procedures are strict; they must be in Arabic, with fee payment, and hearing usually scheduled promptly. Addressing Opposition (if any) Upon opposition, both parties must submit pleadings in Arabic within 30 days. A hearing may be convened. After resolution, the Ministry issues a decision. Decisions may be appealed to the Federal Court and then to the Court of Appeal. Final Registration (By Month 5–6) If no opposition, pay the AED 5,000 registration fee within 30 days. Failing to do so incurs fines of AED 1,000/month up to AED 10,000. The certificate is issued electronically, valid for 10 years from the filing date. Customs Recording (Within 1 month post-registration) File with Dubai Customs: AED 210 per class, plus forms and trademark visuals. This enables customs to seize counterfeit products. Timeline Summary Filing → Publication: ~3 months Opposition resolution: + 30–90 days Fee payment & certificate issuance: + 1 month Total: 4–6 months (longer if opposition arises) Cost Breakdown Stage Fee (AED) Filing in one class 750 (official) Publication in Journal 750 (official) Registration issuance 5,000 (official) + late fees Customs recording (per class) 210 International filing (Madrid) Optional, via MOE portal Transfer of ownership 1,250 Newspaper publishing ~1,000 (optional) Agent/legal fees Varies (AED 2,000–5,000) Translation, notarization Varies for foreign applicants Typical government cost per class: ≈ AED 6,710, excluding agent costs. Multi-class adds AED 210 per extra class, plus additional agent fees. International filings (Madrid) require a separate breakdown. Common Mistakes and Cautions Skipping clearance searches — Rises risk of rejection or being challenged. Misclassification — Forces reapplication and extra fees. Design errors — Non-compliant logos or unclear three-dimensional marks lead to refusal. Missing deadlines — Penalties include monthly fines and potential abandonment. Inadequate PoA — Foreign applicants must legalise within 30 days to avoid rejection. Non-use — Unused marks for five years may be vulnerable to cancellation. Failing customs registration — Limits the ability to enforce against counterfeits. Poor opposition handling — Opponents must file in Arabic and follow procedural rules; respondents must respond timely to maintain rights. Post-Registration Renewal : Application via the MOE online platform, before expiry or within a 3-month grace period. Delay cost is AED 1,000/month up to AED 10,000. : Application via the MOE online platform, before expiry or within a 3-month grace period. Delay cost is AED 1,000/month up to AED 10,000. Transfer of rights : Owner changes require AED 1,250 via MOE. : Owner changes require AED 1,250 via MOE. Licensing : UAE recognises licensing agreements—must be notarised and filed. : UAE recognises licensing agreements—must be notarised and filed. Enforcement : Use courts or customs for infringement. Optionally, register complaints with Dubai Customs (AED 2,010 + AED 5,010 deposit; AED 510 for urgent cases, AED 1,010 for holiday filings). : Use courts or customs for infringement. Optionally, register complaints with Dubai Customs (AED 2,010 + AED 5,010 deposit; AED 510 for urgent cases, AED 1,010 for holiday filings). Monitoring: Regularly search for possible infringers, monitor trade publications, and uphold use to defend rights. Trademark registration in Dubai is an essential, strategic measure for safeguarding your business identity. By providing exclusive legal rights, fostering consumer trust, enhancing brand equity, and enabling robust protection against infringement, trademarks become critical assets to any business aiming to thrive in Dubai's competitive market. Careful planning, diligent adherence to procedures, and timely renewals and enforcement activities will ensure that your brand remains protected. Taking proactive measures such as registering with Dubai Customs and exploring international protection via the Madrid Protocol further strengthens your brand's global position, solidifying its presence both locally and internationally. FAQs about Trademark Registration in Dubai Q1: How long does it take to register a trademark in Dubai? A: Typically, the trademark registration process in Dubai takes between 4 to 6 months if there are no objections or oppositions. Q2: Do I need to be based in Dubai to register a trademark there? A: No. Foreign entities can register a trademark in Dubai, but they must appoint a local authorised agent to handle the registration process. Q3: Can I register multiple classes under one trademark application? A: Yes, you can register for multiple classes, but additional fees apply per class. Accurate classification according to the Nice Classification is essential. Q4: How long is a registered trademark valid in Dubai? A: A trademark registration in Dubai is valid for 10 years and is renewable for subsequent 10-year periods. Q5: What if someone opposes my trademark registration? A: Oppositions must be formally addressed through the Ministry of Economy. Both parties will have to submit arguments, and a decision will be made after careful examination. Q6: Is trademark registration in Dubai valid internationally? A: No, trademarks registered in Dubai are valid within the UAE only. For international protection, you should apply through the Madrid Protocol using your UAE trademark application as the basis. Article Sources: UAE Ministry of Economy – Trademark Registration Dubai Customs – Trademark Recording System Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) – Trademark Registration Handbook UAE Government Portal – Intellectual Property Information International Comparative Legal Guides (ICLG) – UAE Trademark Laws and Regulations Trademark Search – TMview UAE Trademark Fees Guide Trademark Country Index – UAE Profile Also Read: Copyright vs. Trademark vs. Patent: Breaking Down Intellectual Property Rights Let's break down the three big ones: copyright, trademark and patent, and figure out which one you need for what. UAE: New trademark laws a key pillar to establish safe IP environment The new laws allow greater flexibility to accommodate unconventional trademark patterns and provide them with legal protection, in light of the advanced technologies used in building companies' trademarks. UAE: You Can Now Register Sound, Scent, Holograms as Trademarks According to the minister, if you walk into a hotel and smell a perfume, the chain can register that smell for its brand.
Syyaha
04-06-2025
- Business
- Syyaha
Ministry of Economy awards second collective music management licence to Music Nation
The UAE Ministry of Economy granted its second collective music management licence to 'Music Nation' during a ceremony held at its headquarters in Dubai. The licence authorises the organisation to manage the distribution of rights on behalf of music creators and performers, while also ensuring nationwide compliance among music platforms. The announcement was made during an event attended by Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Economy, and Dr. Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini, Assistant Under-Secretary for Intellectual Property. The Ministry confirmed that the licence was issued in accordance with Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2021 concerning copyright and related rights. It marks the continuation of the Ministry's efforts to strengthen intellectual property frameworks in the UAE, following the first collective management licence awarded to the Emirates Music Rights Association in April 2025. Al Saleh said, 'Under the vision of our wise leadership, the UAE has placed strategic emphasis on enhancing the competitiveness of its cultural and creative industries, driving their growth both regionally and globally. Recognising their vital role in national economic growth, we are committed to fostering public-private collaboration to cultivate an enabling environment for talent and innovation. By elevating the creative economy's legislative framework to world-class standards, we aim to expand the private sector's participation in it, in line with the National Strategy for Cultural and Creative Industries 2031.' The Under-Secretary said in his speech, 'The Ministry remains committed to establishing a world-class copyright governance system, drawing on international best practices. We are achieving this through strengthening legal and regulatory frameworks, fostering investment in creative sectors, and implementing robust collective management systems. These measures safeguard intellectual property rights while building creators' trust in the nation's creative ecosystem.' 'The collective music management licence serves as a catalyst for cultural innovation while safeguarding artists' intellectual property rights. Through establishing transparent revenue distribution systems and fair compensation mechanisms, it elevates the UAE's music industry – enhancing its global competitiveness and positioning our nation as a premier hub for creative enterprises,' he added. Al Saleh emphasised that awarding the licence to 'Music Nation' marks a strategic milestone in the UAE's commitment to fostering creativity. The initiative unlocks new opportunities for artists, writers, and producers while strengthening rights protection and leveraging creative-economy tools – ultimately positioning the sector as a key driver of national economic growth. Dr. Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini said, 'Our music industry is witnessing remarkable growth, fuelled by an expanding ecosystem of creative enterprises and world-class events. Dubai alone boasts 350 live music venues, while the national streaming market generated US$841.9 million in 2024 – projected to nearly triple to US$2.3 billion by 2030. To sustain this momentum, the Ministry of Economy is prioritising robust legislative frameworks that will further catalyse the creative economy and foster artistic innovation.' He added, 'Building on last month's inaugural licence granted to the Emirates Music Rights Association, today marks another significant milestone with the official authorisation of Music Nation. We are actively collaborating with local and global partners, including industry associations and legal experts, to share best practices that drive sector growth. In tandem, we're expanding awareness initiatives to ensure artists, composers, and producers fully leverage these licences to protect both their creative works and financial interests.' 'Today marks a pivotal moment for the UAE and Music Nation,' said Rasha Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors for Music Nation. 'After years of careful planning, Music Nation is positioned to become a cornerstone of music licensing, empowering the Emirates' vibrant creative industry. ''As an Emarati, I am honoured to establish a world-class music rights infrastructure that not only elevates local artists to greater heights, but also showcases our rich musical heritage and cultural traditions to the world. In partnership with industry leaders BMI and SoundExchange, our cutting-edge technology and services will protect music rights holders and propel the UAE's music economy to new frontiers,' she added.
Hi Dubai
03-06-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Ministry of Economy Grants Second Music Rights Licence to Music Nation
The UAE Ministry of Economy has officially granted its second collective music management licence to Music Nation, reinforcing the country's commitment to protecting intellectual property and advancing its creative industries. The announcement was made during a ceremony at the Ministry's headquarters in Dubai, attended by senior officials including Under-Secretary Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh and Assistant Under-Secretary for Intellectual Property Dr. Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini. This licence authorises Music Nation to oversee the management and distribution of rights for music creators and performers across the country. It follows the first such licence awarded to the Emirates Music Rights Association in April 2025, under the UAE's Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2021 on copyright and related rights. Al Saleh described the move as a strategic milestone that aligns with the National Strategy for Cultural and Creative Industries 2031, aimed at fostering a globally competitive creative economy. He emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships in supporting talent, innovation, and sustainable growth within the sector. Dr. Al Muaini highlighted the music industry's rapid expansion, citing Dubai's 350 live music venues and a national streaming market projected to grow from US$841.9 million in 2024 to US$2.3 billion by 2030. He stressed the Ministry's commitment to establishing strong legal frameworks and promoting best practices to ensure fair compensation for creators. Music Nation Chairwoman Rasha Khalifa Al Mubarak said the organisation is poised to become a leading force in music licensing, protecting rights holders and showcasing the UAE's cultural richness. Strategic partnerships with global entities like BMI and SoundExchange are expected to enhance transparency and revenue distribution. The initiative is a significant step forward in positioning the UAE as a regional hub for music and creative enterprise. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Mid East Info
02-06-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Nestlé Honors Youth Innovation with First-Ever Sustainability Heroes Award - Middle East Business News and Information
Nestlé's flagship youth initiative celebrates student-led sustainability solutions from over 200 participants — and announces the program's return for a second edition launching in November 2025. Under the auspices of the UAE Ministry of Economy and the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Nestlé and INJAZ UAE announced the winner of the inaugural Sustainability Heroes Award. This youth-centered initiative has equipped more than 200 university students across the UAE with the skills and mentorship to develop innovative sustainability solutions. Kleva, composed of students from University of Sharjah, took top honors for their project,— a dynamic project-based learning platform providing students and young professionals with real-world experience before formal employment. Their proposal stood out for its originality, viability, and potential to create measurable social impact. The winning team will now begin internships with Nestlé, gaining hands-on experience and access to further mentoring opportunities to help refine and scale their solution. Over six months, students engaged in a 'Learning by Doing' format emphasizing entrepreneurship, business acumen, and real-world impact. At the heart of the program is the INJAZ UAE Company Program, which transforms classrooms into start-ups. Students worked in teams to develop business solutions addressing real sustainability challenges while learning from each other and industry professionals. Emphasizing sustainability-driven entrepreneurship, the program empowered participants to build innovative, purpose-led ventures that respond to pressing environmental and social issues. Throughout the journey, students received dedicated training and hands-on mentorship from Nestlé professionals, gaining exposure to real-world business contexts and sustainability practices. As a result: Nestlé employees mentored the students; 10 internships and 15 mentorship opportunities will be extended to top students, with the winning team securing automatic placements to the internships; Finalists are acquiring critical business skills to serve them in future roles, whether as employees or entrepreneurs. The Sustainability Heroes Award celebrates not only the winning solution but also the broader movement to foster sustainable thinking and practical action among the UAE's emerging talent. A platform with long-term purpose: 'As we look ahead to the next phase of the UAE's economic transformation, programs like Sustainability Heroes will continue to play a vital role in equipping our youth to lead with purpose and contribute to the knowledge economy,' said His Excellency Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the UAE Ministry of Economy. Ms. Hajar Bakhit Alketbi, Director of the Government Communication Department at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, added: 'Youth are central to climate action and sustainable development. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment is committed to developing the young people of our country as the leaders of tomorrow, a premise that underpins the Sustainability Heroes Award. We believe their role is critical to climate action, and we are committed to strategically integrating young people into every aspect of our efforts to combat climate change. Their energy, enthusiasm, and skillset are invaluable assets that can drive real transformation and help us achieve our sustainability goals. I commend Nestlé's efforts in inspiring student-led sustainability projects, demonstrating how the private sector can contribute to our climate initiatives. I also commend all the participants for their remarkable projects and eagerly anticipate the next edition in November.' Ms. Sarah Shaw, CEO of at Majra, said: 'At Majra, we believe in unlocking the potential of youth to lead national progress. Sustainability Heroes is a prime example of how partnerships can equip young people with the skills, mindset, and confidence to turn their ideas into action — not only for their own futures, but for the future of our planet.' Hassan Atia, General Business Manager of Nestlé UAE, commented: 'This award is not just a recognition of student excellence — it's a celebration of bold ideas and a powerful commitment to change. At Nestlé, we're proud to walk alongside young changemakers building a better future for people and the planet. This initiative is a reflection of our global commitment through the Nestlé Needs Youth program, which empowers young talent with the skills, opportunities, and platforms they need to thrive. And this is just the beginning — we look forward to expanding the program's reach and impact in the next edition.' The Sustainability Heroes initiative is designed as a long-term platform to equip youth with the tools and mindset to contribute meaningfully to the UAE's national priorities — from sustainability and climate resilience to entrepreneurship and food security. By embedding sustainability into entrepreneurship education, the program supports the development of job-ready, purpose-driven talent capable of building solutions for a better tomorrow. Following the success of its first edition, Nestlé and its partners will launch the second edition of the program in November 2025, with an expanded mandate to reach more students across the UAE and deepen its impact nationwide. About Nestlé in the UAE: Nestlé's regional office for the Middle East and North Africa is based in Dubai South, and the company operates across the Emirates with offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah. Nestlé works with more than 850 customers in the UAE and more than 1,700 retail outlets in the country, including supermarkets and pharmacies. The company locally produces confectionary, dairy, culinary, and coffee, at two food and beverages factories in Dubai and operates two water manufacturing sites, one in Dubai and one in Abu Dhabi. Nestlé employs more than 1,300 people from different parts of the world, while providing indirect employment to hundreds more.
Web Release
02-06-2025
- Business
- Web Release
Rafeeg Unveils Revolutionary AI Interior Design Tool and Franchise Initiative at GITEX Europe 2025
Rafeeg App, a leading UAE-based platform in the home services sector, made a bold statement at GITEX Europe 2025 with the unveiling of its new AI-powered interior design algorithm, allowing homeowners to professionally design their spaces without hiring interior designers or conducting in-person consultations. The announcement signals a major move toward digital transformation in home design while also setting the stage for Rafeeg's global expansion, starting with Europe. The patent-pending algorithm, currently undergoing the registration process with support from the UAE Ministry of Economy and Khalifa Fund, employs AI to instantly generate high-quality and fully customized interior design concepts based on user input. Without the need for costly site visits or manual layout reviews, the technology significantly reduces the time and the cost that is often associated with home redesign. It is expected to launch publicly by the end of 2025. Rafeeg introduced an innovative franchise pilot program at the event, inviting interested European partners to participate in a fully funded, one-month trial with no obligation to continue afterwards. During the opening days of the exhibition, more than 20 European businesses expressed formal interest in the program. Rafeeg will cover all startup costs during the trial, providing partners with a low-risk opportunity to test the platform in their respective markets. 'We believe that the success of a startup depends on cultivating knowledge, trust, and a seamless operation. This vision is what Rafeeg stands for and presents,' said Khamis Alsheryani, Founder and CEO of Rafeeg. 'We're excited to extend that vision to Europe and beyond.' Founded in 2017, Rafeeg was created to bridge the gap between homeowners and vetted service providers in the UAE. The app currently supports over 140,000 users and a network of 4,500 service professionals, including electricians, interior designers, and renovation specialists. The platform has already processed over AED 50 million in transactions and is celebrated for its focus on quality assurance, affordability, and customer satisfaction. What sets Rafeeg apart is its mission to empower local businesses rather than compete with them. Through comprehensive training programs, operational support, and strict quality control, Rafeeg helps small and medium-sized contractors to scale their operations and elevate their service standards. Their collaborative approach has been a key pillar of the brand's success in the UAE and is central to its strategy for future expansion. The company's participation in GITEX Europe represents a strategic initiative to enter new markets. Supported by the UAE's national innovation agenda, Rafeeg is actively seeking like-minded partners across the Northern Emirates, GCC countries, and key European cities to collaboratively develop the next generation of home services. Entrepreneurs and investors interested in joining Rafeeg's international growth journey can apply for the limited-time franchise trial through or by reaching out to the team at [email protected].
