Trademark registration in the UAE protects your brand name, logo, and distinctive marks from being used by competitors. Here is a complete guide to UAE trademark registration in 2025.
UAE Trademark Registration Authority
UAE trademark registration is handled by the Ministry of Economy (MoE) Intellectual Property Department. A registered UAE trademark: provides legal protection across all 7 UAE emirates, is valid for 10 years (renewable), gives you the right to take legal action against infringers, and allows you to use the ® symbol (TM is used for unregistered marks). Note: UAE trademark registration does NOT protect you in other GCC countries. For GCC-wide protection: file separately in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar, or use the GCC Trademark Office (for one of the GCC-member collective registrations).
UAE Trademark Registration Process
Step 1: Search for Conflicts. Before filing, search the MoE trademark database (moec.gov.ae/trademarks) to ensure no identical or confusingly similar mark is registered in your target class. Step 2: Classify Your Mark. UAE uses the Nice International Classification system (45 classes). Select the class(es) that cover your products/services. Common classes: Class 25 (clothing), Class 35 (advertising/retail services), Class 41 (education), Class 44 (healthcare), Class 36 (insurance/finance). Step 3: File the Application. Apply via the MoE online portal. Upload: logo/wordmark (JPG), description of goods/services, translation (if the mark is in a non-Arabic language). Fees: AED 750 for applications per class + AED 250 for each additional class. Step 4: Examination and Publication. MoE examines the mark for absolute grounds (distinctiveness) and relative grounds (conflicts). If accepted, the mark is published in the Official Gazette for 30 days for third-party opposition. Step 5: Registration. If no opposition is filed, the trademark is registered and a certificate is issued. Total time: 8–18 months for uncomplicated marks.