Registering a trademark in the UAE involves several steps. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
1. Prepare Your Trademark
- Ensure your trademark is distinctive and complies with UAE laws.
- Trademarks can include names, logos, symbols, or a combination. However, generic terms, offensive symbols, or anything contrary to public morals are not allowed.
2. Conduct a Trademark Search
- Check the UAE Ministry of Economy’s trademark database to ensure your proposed trademark is not already registered or too similar to an existing one.
3. File the Application
- Submit your trademark application to the UAE Ministry of Economy (MOE) via their online portal or through a registered agent.
- The application requires:
- Trademark name/logo.
- Description of goods/services (classified under the Nice Classification system).
- Applicant details (individual or company).
- Power of Attorney (if filing through an agent).
- Pay the application fee (approximately AED 1,500 for filing).
4. Examination by the Ministry
- The MOE examines the application to ensure compliance with UAE Trademark Law and verifies the uniqueness of the trademark.
- This process may take 30–60 days.
5. Publication in Official Gazette and Local Newspapers
- If approved, the trademark will be published in the Official Gazette and two Arabic-language newspapers.
- This step allows the public to raise objections within 30 days of publication.
6. Respond to Objections (if any)
- If there are objections, you must respond with supporting documents or negotiate a resolution.
7. Trademark Registration Certificate
- If no objections are raised, or they are resolved successfully, the MOE will issue a Trademark Registration Certificate.
- The certificate confirms your trademark rights for 10 years, renewable upon expiry.
8. Monitor and Enforce
- Actively monitor for trademark infringement. Legal action can be taken against unauthorized use under UAE law.
Approximate Costs
- Filing and publication fees: AED 8,500–10,000 (excluding legal fees if hiring an agent).
- Renewal fees after 10 years: Similar to the initial costs.
For legal assistance, consider hiring a trademark attorney to streamline the process and ensure compliance.
