Trademark registration in the UAE protects your brand name, logo, and slogan across all seven emirates. Here is the complete step-by-step process through the UAE Ministry of Economy’s trademark portal.
Step 1: Trademark Search
Before filing, search the UAE Trademark Register to confirm your mark is not already registered. Search at: trademarks.economy.gov.ae. Search by: word mark (company name, product name), logo/device, or combination. Also search in the specific Nice Classification class(es) relevant to your goods/services. If a similar mark exists in your class, seek legal advice before filing — the UAE Examiner will cite the earlier mark as a ground for rejection.
Step 2: Classify Your Goods/Services
UAE trademarks are registered in one or more Nice Classification classes (there are 45 classes total). Common classes for UAE businesses: Class 35 (advertising, business services, retail), Class 36 (financial services, real estate, insurance), Class 38 (telecommunications, internet services), Class 42 (technology, software, IT services), Class 44 (healthcare services). Each class requires a separate filing fee. Filing in multiple classes increases protection but also increases cost.
Step 3: File the Application
Apply online at trademarks.economy.gov.ae or through a licensed UAE trademark agent. Required: trademark representation (word and/or image file), applicant details (name, nationality, address), list of goods/services in each class, UAE trade licence or passport copy of the applicant. Filing fee: AED 750 per class (online). Confirm the exact fee on the portal as it may be updated.
Step 4: Examination and Response
The UAE Trademark Examiner reviews the application within 30–90 days. If no objections: the application is accepted and published in the Official Gazette. If objected: you have 30 days to respond to the objection. Common objections: descriptive mark, earlier conflicting mark, unacceptable classification.
Step 5: Publication and Registration
After acceptance, the mark is published for 30 days for third-party oppositions. If no opposition: the registration certificate is issued within 15–20 working days of the opposition period closing. UAE trademark registration is valid for 10 years from the filing date, renewable indefinitely for AED 500–750 per class.