UAE Ministry of Economy Announces Significant Revisions to Trademark Service Fees, Enhancing IP Landscape
The United Arab Emirates Cabinet has issued Resolution No. (102) of 2025, introducing comprehensive amendments to the service fees administered by the Ministry of Economy. This pivotal legislation revises certain provisions of Cabinet Resolution No. (20) of 2020, specifically impacting intellectual property services within the nation. These significant updates to trademark service fees are set to take effect on 14 November 2025, marking a new phase for brand protection and enforcement in the UAE and influencing businesses across the GCC region.
The amendments reflect a strategic move to modernize the intellectual property framework, streamline processes, and align the fee structure with international best practices. This development holds considerable implications for corporations, entrepreneurs, and legal practitioners operating in or expanding into the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar.
Below are the key changes and important considerations for stakeholders.
1. Introduction of Fees for Appeals
Previously, trademark appeals in the UAE were not subject to official fees. The new resolution fundamentally alters this, introducing charges for various appeal procedures. This includes:
- Appeals lodged against initial rejection decisions by the Trademark Office.
- Appeals challenging decisions made regarding post-registration amendments.
- Appeals related to opposition proceedings, with distinct fee structures depending on whether the appellant is the applicant or the opposing party.
This change necessitates a re-evaluation of strategies for brand owners contemplating legal challenges.
2. Expedited Trademark Examination Service
A significant enhancement to the trademark registration process is the introduction of an expedited “one-day examination” service. This new option allows applicants to request accelerated examination of their trademark applications for an additional fee. While specific procedural guidelines and eligibility criteria for this fast-track service are anticipated from the Trademark Office in forthcoming announcements, it represents a promising step towards offering quicker turnaround times for critical intellectual property protections.
3. Revised Fees for Renewals and Special Marks
The updated fee schedule includes increased charges for the renewal of certification and quality control marks. Notably, renewals submitted within the designated grace period will incur higher fees. Furthermore, the fees for securing and maintaining certification and quality marks are now set at a higher rate than those for standard trademarks, reflecting their broader regulatory significance and oversight requirements.
4. Sustained Multi-Class Application Structure
The practice of multi-class filings in the UAE will continue to be charged on a per-class basis. While a single application document may encompass multiple intellectual property classes, each class within that application will still attract its standard filing fee, maintaining the current procedural approach.
5. Further Procedural and Administrative Fee Adjustments
Beyond the primary changes, several other adjustments to trademark-related fees have been introduced:
- International Registration Conversion: New fees are now applicable for the conversion of national trademark filings into international registrations under relevant protocols.
- Opposition Evidence Submission: The submission of additional statements or evidence during opposition proceedings will now incur separate fees, distinct from any hearing fees.
- Grievance Committee Appeals: A new fee has been established for appeals lodged with the Grievance Committee against trademark cancellation decisions, as previously anticipated.
- Trademark Agency Registration Renewal: A notable increase has been implemented for the renewal of trademark agency registrations, which were previously complimentary and will now cost AED 7,500.
6. Preferential Fees for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs)
In a move designed to bolster local enterprise and foster a more inclusive intellectual property ecosystem, the new schedule introduces a preferential fee category for SMEs. To qualify for these reduced fees, businesses must be registered members of the National Program for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises and Establishments. While the framework for supporting SMEs is now established, further clarification is expected from the Ministry of Economy regarding the precise definition of eligible SMEs, the classification criteria, and the required documentary evidence to benefit from these reduced rates. This initiative is poised to significantly support local entrepreneurs and smaller rights holders across the GCC.
7. Exemption for People of Determination
Emphasizing the UAE’s steadfast commitment to equality and inclusion, the updated fee schedule grants an exemption from official fees for people of determination (individuals with disabilities). This compassionate measure aligns with the nation’s values of empowerment and respect, removing financial barriers to participation in the intellectual property system. By fostering broader access, this exemption aims to encourage innovation and creative contributions from all segments of society, contributing to a more inclusive and knowledge-driven economy.
The Ministry of Economy and the Trademark Office are expected to host information sessions in the coming weeks to provide further clarity on these amendments and offer practical guidance on their implementation. These reforms are anticipated to streamline the trademark registration process, enhance efficiency, and reinforce the UAE’s position as a leading hub for intellectual property protection and innovation within the GCC and beyond.