If you’re in business in the UAE or planning to be, protecting your brand is one of the most important things you can do.
A trademark is not just a logo or a name, it’s your brand. It’s what sets you apart from others and helps customers recognize your products or services.
Registering a trademark in the UAE means your brand is legally protected and no one can use it without your permission.
What is a Trademark?
Before we get started, let’s clarify what a trademark is.
A trademark is a unique sign, symbol, word, phrase, or design that identifies your goods or services.
It’s what makes your brand recognizable. For example, Nike’s “swoosh” and McDonald’s golden arches are registered trademarks. In the UAE, trademarks can be:
- Business names
- Logos
- Slogans
- Sounds
- Colors
- Even shapes
Once registered, your trademark gives you exclusive rights to use it with your products or services.
It also allows you to take legal action against anyone who tries to copy or misuse it.
Registering a trademark in the UAE is a must for any business looking to protect its brand, build customer trust, and get a competitive edge.
In a market like the UAE where businesses are always evolving, registering your trademark can give you the legal protection you need to safeguard your brand identity.
Whether you’re a startup or an established company, understanding the process and fees is key to making an informed decision about your intellectual property.
Why Trademark Registration in UAE?
As we said earlier, your trademark is more than just a logo or a slogan, it’s the face of your business.
In a competitive market, having a registered trademark means your brand is legally protected.
This means you have exclusive rights to use your brand’s identity, and you can take legal action against anyone who uses it without permission.
Whether you plan to expand locally or internationally, a registered trademark adds value to your business and builds credibility with customers.
In the UAE registering a trademark is a structured process governed by clear guidelines set by the Ministry of Economy.
With the number of businesses in the region growing, trademark registration has never been more important.
It’s not just about protection it’s also about establishing your brand’s reputation in a market that values innovation and quality.
What is the Trademark Class System in the UAE?
In the UAE, trademarks are classified into 45 international classes, each covering specific goods and services.
You can register in 44 of these classes but you must choose wisely! This classification system ensures your trademark is protected in the industry segments where you operate.
Focusing on the right classes means you get the necessary protection without incurring unnecessary costs for irrelevant categories. For example:
- Class 25: Covers clothing, footwear and headgear.
- Class 35: Includes advertising, business management, and retail services.
- Class 42: Covers scientific and technological services.
Choosing the right class is important as it determines the scope of your trademark’s protection.
For most businesses focusing on the right classes means avoiding unnecessary costs for categories that don’t apply to their operations.
Which Trademarks Can Be Registered in the UAE?
Not all trademarks are eligible for registration in the UAE. To register a trademark, it must meet the following criteria:
- It must be distinctive enough to identify your goods or services.
- It must not contain any elements that are offensive, against public morals or in conflict with religious values.
- The trademark must not include public symbols such as national flags, the Red Cross or similar emblems.
- It cannot include names or titles that belong to third parties or direct translations of well-known trademarks.
It’s recommended to review the specific guidelines provided by the Ministry of Economy to ensure your trademark complies with all requirements.
Step-by-Step Process to Register Your Trademark in the UAE
The process of registering a trademark in the UAE is structured and involves several key steps. Here’s a breakdown of each stage:
1. Conduct a Preliminary Search
Before filing a trademark application it’s important to conduct a preliminary search. This search helps ensure your desired trademark is unique and not already in use by another business in the UAE.
Many businesses use online databases and the official trademark portal provided by the UAE Ministry of Economy to perform this search.
A thorough search can save you time and money by avoiding potential legal conflicts later on.
It’s recommended to work with an intellectual property (IP) consultant or legal advisor during this stage to get professional advice.
2. Prepare and Submit Your Application
Once you’ve confirmed your trademark is available the next step is to file the application.
The UAE’s trademark registration is managed through the Ministry of Economy’s online portal. You need to fill out the application form and provide all required details:
- The trademark design (logo, symbol or wordmark)
- The applicant’s details (individual or company)
- The list of goods or services that your trademark will cover (based on the international class system)
- Supporting documents (copy of trade license, power of attorney, and passport copy)
You can file your application online through the Ministry of Economy’s website. Make sure all information is accurate and complete to avoid any delays or rejections in the process.
3. Payment of Fees
After filing your application, you need to pay the required fees. The fees for trademark registration in the UAE are as follows:
- Filing Fee: AED 750
- Publication Fee: AED 750 for publishing your trademark in the official Trademark Journal
- Registration Fee: AED 5,000
These fees may vary if additional services are required, such as legal consultations or translation services. Applicants can pay these fees online through the Ministry of Economy’s website.
4. Examination by the Trademark Office
After you submit your application and pay the fees the trademark office will review your application.
This examination phase is critical to ensure your trademark meets all legal requirements.
If there are any discrepancies or objections, you will be notified and allowed to respond or correct them. Generally, if your application is correct, this phase takes about 30 days.
5. Publication and Opposition Period
Once your trademark is approved it will be published in the official Trademark Journal. This publication allows third parties to review and, if necessary, file an opposition against your trademark registration.
The opposition period is 30 days. If no opposition is received or if any opposition is resolved in your favor, the process moves to the next step.
6. Issuance of the Trademark Registration Certificate
If everything goes smoothly, your trademark will be registered, and you will receive the trademark registration certificate.
This certificate includes all the details of your trademark such as the registration number, trademark design, owner’s details, and description of the goods and services.
7. Renewal and Cancellation Procedures
A trademark in the UAE is valid for 10 years and should be renewed after that. Renewal is similar to the registration process and should be done within 3 months of the expiry date.
Late renewal incurs additional fines. If you decide to cancel your trademark you should apply through the Ministry of Economy’s online portal along with the required documents and fees.
Cost of Trademark Registration in the UAE
The cost of trademark registration in the UAE depends on the type of trademark and the services you are registering for. Here’s a breakdown of the main costs:
- Application Fee: AED 1,000. This is the initial fee paid when you file your trademark application. It covers the cost of processing and reviewing your application.
- Publication Fee: AED 1,000: There is also a fee for publishing your trademark in the official journal which allows for opposition.
- Certificate Issuance Fee: AED 4,700: Once your trademark is approved and no oppositions are raised, you will pay a registration fee to get your certificate.
- Legal Translation Fees: If your trademark includes text in a language other than Arabic, you will need to get it translated. This can cost AED 500-1,000.
- Agent Fees: If you hire a trademark agent or legal consultant, their fees can range from AED 2,000 to AED 5,000.
On average, the total cost for a standard trademark registration in the UAE is AED 6,700 to AED 10,000.
If you are registering for multiple classes or if any additional legal services are required, the cost may be higher.
Why Trademark Registration in the UAE is Essential?
You may be asking yourself, “Is it really necessary to register my trademark?”” The short answer is yes. Here’s why:
1. Legal Protection: Registering your trademark grants you legal ownership. If someone uses your brand without permission, you can take them to court.
2. Builds Trust: A registered trademark adds credibility to your business. Customers are more likely to trust a brand that is legally recognized.
3. Prevents Copycats: The UAE is a competitive market. Registering your trademark ensures no one else can use a similar name or logo.
4. Business Expansion: If you plan to expand your business in the UAE or internationally, a registered trademark is essential.
5. Asset Value: A trademark is an intangible asset that increases in value as your brand grows.
How to Renew Your Trademark Once Expired in UAE
Trademarks in the UAE are valid for 10 years. To renew:
- Submit your renewal application through the Ministry of Economy’s website.
- Pay AED 5,750.
- Provide a copy of your old certificate.
Late renewal incurs an AED 1,000 fine per month.
How to Cancel a Trademark in UAE
If you no longer need your trademark you can cancel it through the Ministry of Economy’s website. The process is:
- Fill out the cancellation application.
- Pay AED 1,500.
- Advertise the cancellation in two local Arabic-language newspapers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Trademark Registration
Trademark registration is a detailed process and even small mistakes can lead to delays or rejection. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
1. Not Conducting a Trademark Search: If you don’t do this you risk your application being rejected if your trademark is similar to an existing one.
2. Incomplete Application: Make sure all required documents and information are included in your application.
3. Choosing a Generic Name: Trademarks that are too generic or descriptive (e.g. “Best Coffee”) are harder to register. Go for something unique.
4. Ignoring Objections: If someone objects to your trademark during the publication period don’t ignore it. Address the issue immediately.
5. Not Renewing on Time: Trademarks in the UAE are valid for 10 years. Don’t forget to renew yours before it expires.
Who can register a trademark in the UAE?
Anyone, whether an individual or a business entity, can apply for trademark registration in the UAE. Please note you must have a clear idea of the goods or services you want your trademark to cover.
How long does the trademark registration process take?
6 to 12 months depending on the complexity of the application and any oppositions.
What if someone objects to my trademark?
If someone objects, you will be allowed to present your case. The trademark office will review the objection and if you can address the concerns, the registration will proceed.
Can I register a trademark online?
Yes, the UAE Ministry of Economy has an online portal where you can file your trademark application and track its progress.
Do I need to hire a legal expert for trademark registration?
While you can register a trademark yourself, many applicants find working with an IP consultant or legal advisor helps to simplify the process and reduce the risk of mistakes.
If you’re ready to protect your brand, contact a trademark registration company in the UAE so they can help you with your application and ensure you get the most out of your registered trademark in the UAE.
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