UAE Streamlines Overseas Document Legalisation, Benefiting Intellectual Property Filings Dubai, UAE – Businesses and legal professionals operating within the United Arab Emirates are set to experience increased efficiency in document legalisation procedures following a recent update from UAE Consulates located outside the country. The change, particularly impactful for intellectual property (IP) matters, introduces a new electronic format for legalisation pages which, in certain cases, integrates the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) attestation directly into the consular process performed abroad. Accelerated Attestation Process Previously, documents legalised by a UAE Consulate overseas typically required a subsequent attestation by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs within the UAE before they could be formally submitted or relied upon. Under the revised system, where the new electronic legalisation page explicitly features both the UAE Consulate attestation and the MOFA attestation, this additional MOFA step within the UAE may no longer be necessary. This integration streamlines the overall process. For documents benefiting from the combined attestation, the subsequent steps upon arrival in the UAE would be limited to translating the document into Arabic and securing attestation of this translation from the Ministry of Justice. Cost and Time Efficiencies The official fees for this combined legalisation process are reported to remain consistent, capped at approximately AED 2,300. Critically, by potentially eliminating the separate MOFA attestation step in the UAE, businesses can avoid additional fees previously incurred for that stage, contributing to better cost management. Beyond cost savings, the primary benefit is an improvement in processing timelines. The reduction in bureaucratic steps is expected to accelerate the preparation and submission of essential legal documents. Significant Impact on Intellectual Property Practices This development holds particular relevance for intellectual property practitioners and businesses managing IP portfolios in the UAE. The legalisation of various documents is a fundamental requirement across numerous IP procedures, including: Powers of Attorney: Essential for new filings, renewals, opposition proceedings, and enforcement actions related to trademarks, patents, and copyrights. Corporate Recordals: Facilitating assignment agreements, merger documentation, and changes of name or address affecting IP registrations. Evidentiary Submissions: Required for supporting evidence in IP opposition, cancellation, and enforcement cases. Regional Portfolio Management: Simplifying cross-border IP filings and administrative tasks. The enhanced efficiency in obtaining duly legalised documents is anticipated to shorten turnaround times for IP filings and recordals, improve cost predictability, and better align with client expectations, especially when statutory deadlines are tight. While this update represents a significant step towards administrative simplification, it is important to note that there are no current indications of changes to the Ministry of Economy and Tourism’s established requirements for Powers of Attorney at various procedural stages. The existing option for late filing of Powers for new applications remains in place. Overall, the introduction of this combined legalisation process underscores the UAE’s ongoing commitment to refining its administrative frameworks, reducing bureaucracy, and fostering a more efficient and user-friendly environment for legal and commercial operations.

Saudi Arabia Witnesses Significant Surge in Intellectual Property Activity and Enhanced Regulatory Framework The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has recorded a substantial increase in intellectual property (IP) activity during the first half of 2025, alongside significant advancements in its regulatory and legislative framework. These developments underscore the nation’s strategic commitment to fostering a knowledge-based economy and solidifying its position as a leading hub for innovation and creativity in the region. Robust Growth Across IP Categories in H1 2025 According to a recent report from the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP), the first half of 2025 saw impressive growth across all major IP categories. Trademark applications expanded by 15 percent, reaching 27,938 submissions, which resulted in 18,784 registered marks. Patent applications surged by 23 percent to 4,928, with 1,885 patents successfully granted. Industrial design applications also experienced a significant rise of 26 percent, totaling 1,153, from which 729 design certificates were issued. In the realm of copyrights, SAIP processed 1,847 voluntary registration applications, marking a 52 percent increase, and issued 1,029 certificates. This sustained growth highlights a growing awareness among individuals and institutions regarding the critical importance of protecting intellectual assets and reflects Saudi Arabia’s evolving status as a centre for entrepreneurship supported by a dynamic regulatory environment. International Recognition and Legislative Reforms Saudi Arabia’s dedicated efforts to bolster its intellectual property ecosystem have gained notable international recognition. In the 13th edition of a global intellectual property index, the Kingdom achieved a remarkable 17.55 percent increase in its overall score, positioning it among the top countries for progress out of 55 global economies. This achievement is in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritises innovation. Key legislative and regulatory advancements were instrumental in this improved performance. These initiatives include the extension of industrial design protection terms to 15 years, the establishment of a specialised prosecution office dedicated to intellectual property offences, and the enhancement of electronic enforcement mechanisms for copyrights and trademarks. These reforms have collectively contributed to elevating the Kingdom’s IP index score from 36.6 percent in 2019 to 53.7 percent in 2025, representing a cumulative increase of over 40 percent in six years. This progress reflects the collaborative work between SAIP and other relevant national entities to create an integrated system that instils confidence among investors and innovators, reinforcing the Kingdom’s role as a regional leader in the creative and knowledge-based economy. National Intellectual Property Strategy Driving Future Growth Underpinning these developments is the National Intellectual Property Strategy (NIPST), launched in 2022 by HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. NIPST is a pivotal enabler for achieving Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to construct an intellectual property ecosystem that nurtures an economy founded on innovation and creativity. The strategy seeks to develop an IP value chain that stimulates innovation and competitiveness, ultimately fostering economic growth and positioning Saudi Arabia as a global leader in intellectual property. The Crown Prince underscored the nation’s potential, stating that by empowering its innovative talent, Saudi Arabia will transform into a vibrant environment for a knowledge economy, developing advanced technologies and industries, stimulating investment, creating high-quality jobs, and raising awareness of creators’ and innovators’ rights. NIPST is structured around four fundamental pillars: IP Creation, IP Administration, IP Commercialization, and IP Protection. These pillars guide the collaborative efforts with national stakeholders to support innovation, creativity, and investment growth, thereby enhancing Saudi Arabia’s capability to generate IP assets of significant economic and social value.

Innovation Surge: GCC Higher Education Drives Patent Landscape and Economic Diversification Abu Dhabi, UAE – A prominent academic institution in the United Arab Emirates has significantly bolstered the region’s intellectual property landscape, securing over 50 patents from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in 2025. This achievement underscores the institution’s commitment to cutting-edge research and its pivotal role in advancing the national knowledge economy across the GCC. The substantial portfolio of new patents spans critical research domains directly aligned with the UAE’s strategic national priorities and innovation agenda. These include advanced materials and nanotechnology, water and environmental engineering, construction and manufacturing technologies, energy and power systems, and biotechnology and bioprocessing. Notably, two of the secured patents are in the field of artificial intelligence, reflecting an increasing focus on digital transformation and intelligent solutions designed to address contemporary societal and developmental challenges. Representatives from the university highlighted that this innovative research model extends beyond traditional academic outputs, aiming to deliver tangible solutions beneficial to both industry and society. The successful acquisition of more than 50 patents is seen as a clear indicator of the research community’s capacity to generate high-value innovations that resonate with national objectives and future requirements. Looking ahead, a key strategic focus involves accelerating the commercialisation of these intellectual assets. Plans are in motion to support the formation of spin-off startups and to strengthen collaborative partnerships with both governmental bodies and private sector entities across the GCC. This proactive approach aims to translate groundbreaking ideas into market-ready innovations, thereby stimulating economic growth and supporting the UAE’s overarching vision for a competitive, sustainable, and knowledge-based economy. A defining characteristic of the institution’s innovation framework is its dedication to nurturing emerging talent. In 2025, a significant number of students, comprising 14 postgraduate and 20 undergraduate individuals, were credited as co-inventors on these patents. This demonstrates a strong institutional commitment to cultivating the next generation of researchers, innovators, and entrepreneurs poised to shape the future trajectory of technological advancement within the region. These intellectual property milestones are in direct alignment with the UAE’s National Innovation Strategy and UAE Vision 2031. These national frameworks collectively aim to build a diversified, knowledge-driven economy underpinned by advanced research, technology integration, and robust human capital development. By effectively translating scientific discoveries into practical applications, the institution continues to enhance the nation’s global competitiveness and long-term sustainability, setting a precedent for other GCC nations to follow in fostering a vibrant innovation ecosystem.

Protecting Personal Likeness in the AI Era: A Focus on Intellectual Property in the GCC The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies is presenting novel challenges to existing legal frameworks across the globe, particularly concerning the unauthorized commercialization of an individual’s likeness. In the GCC region, legal professionals and brand owners are increasingly examining how current intellectual property (IP) laws can provide robust protection against AI-driven misuse, especially where content is monetized. Navigating Varied Protections for Personal Likeness Jurisdictions worldwide offer varying degrees of protection against the commercial exploitation of a person’s image, voice, or identity without explicit consent. While some frameworks exist to safeguard an individual’s inherent right to control their public image, the scope and enforcement mechanisms for such protections can differ significantly. This creates an environment where clarity regarding legal recourse for individuals, including public figures, may be inconsistent when their likeness is illicitly used for commercial gain. The advent of sophisticated AI technologies capable of generating highly realistic synthetic media further complicates this landscape, making it harder to identify and address infringements. Trademark Law: A Stronger Avenue for Recourse? In contrast to potentially fragmented or evolving protections for personal likeness, trademark law stands out as a well-established intellectual property framework that may offer a more definitive path for enforcement. Trademarks are designed to protect distinctive signs, symbols, words, or designs used to identify and distinguish goods or services of one party from those of others. When an individual’s likeness, or an element associated with it, functions as a source identifier for commercial purposes, it can potentially be protected under trademark principles. This avenue is gaining attention because trademark law typically provides clearer legal standards and enforcement mechanisms. For instance, the unauthorized use of a distinctively recognizable persona or attribute for commercial purposes, especially when associated with goods or services, could be argued as a form of trademark infringement or dilution. Such an approach aims to provide clearer leverage in legal proceedings, particularly against digital platforms or entities indirectly profiting from AI-generated content that mimics individuals. Addressing AI Misuse and Commercial Monetization The challenge intensifies as AI tools become more adept at creating persuasive deepfakes and other forms of synthetic media. These technologies allow for the creation of content that can simulate an individual’s appearance, voice, and mannerisms without their involvement or permission. When such AI-generated content is subsequently used for commercial purposes – whether directly promoting a product or service, or indirectly through advertising revenue on digital platforms – it raises critical questions about infringement and unfair competition. Legal experts in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar are observing how these developments necessitate a close examination of existing intellectual property rights. Leveraging the defined principles of trademark law could offer a more consistent and effective strategy for individuals and brands in the GCC to combat the unauthorized commercialization of their likeness in the burgeoning era of AI-generated content. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the application and potential adaptation of these foundational IP principles will be crucial for maintaining control over personal and brand identities.

GCC IP Landscape Navigates AI Challenges as Digital Impersonation Risks Rise Dubai, UAE – The accelerating sophistication of artificial intelligence (AI) in generating realistic digital content is creating new challenges for intellectual property (IP) protection, particularly concerning personal identity and commercial rights. This evolving landscape underscores the increasing importance for individuals and businesses across the GCC to understand and proactively manage their digital presence and associated IP. A significant recent development in the United States highlights a strategic approach to combating unauthorized AI impersonation. A prominent actor has successfully secured eight trademarks for his voice and likeness from the relevant intellectual property office. This decisive action aims to establish a robust legal perimeter against the misuse of his digital identity through AI-generated content, including deepfakes. Proactive IP Strategy Against AI Misuse The actor’s initiative marks a proactive step by a public figure to leverage existing intellectual property frameworks in response to the growing threat of AI impersonation. The newly approved trademarks are designed to prevent the unauthorized use of his voice, name, and visual representations in various digital formats, including advertising, social media, and other content platforms. The stated objective is to ensure that any commercial or public use of his identity receives explicit approval and appropriate compensation. This development follows a period where the entertainment industry and legal experts have noted a widening gap between traditional legal statutes and the rapid advancements in generative AI technology. While some industry-specific content disclosure policies are emerging, comprehensive legal frameworks specifically addressing personal identity protection against AI replication remain an area of global discussion and development. Global Precedent and Regional Relevance for the GCC While these trademarks are registered under US jurisdiction, their implications resonate globally, including across the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar. Such pioneering legal strategies set an important precedent for how public figures and entities might control their digital identities and commercial rights worldwide in the age of AI. The GCC region, with its rapidly digitizing economy and significant online engagement, is not immune to the risks posed by sophisticated AI-generated content. Businesses and consumers alike in countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar are increasingly exposed to various forms of digital fraud and impersonation. Incidents involving unauthorized AI-generated content depicting public figures, as seen with other personalities like Tom Hanks and Taylor Swift in different regions, serve as a potent reminder of the potential for misuse. Such fabrications have been used in fraudulent schemes, including misleading advertisements and crypto promotions. Navigating the Evolving Digital Rights Environment The absence of a singular, universally adopted international law specifically targeting AI impersonation means that individual intellectual property strategies, like the securing of trademarks for personal attributes, could become a more common and crucial protective measure. For entities operating within or interacting with the GCC, this development emphasizes several key considerations: Vigilance Against Digital Fraud: Businesses and consumers must exercise heightened caution when encountering celebrity endorsements or promotional content, especially those soliciting financial contributions or promoting investment schemes, and always verify authenticity. Strengthening Local IP Frameworks: The ongoing global conversation around AI and IP rights highlights the importance for GCC nations to continue reviewing and enhancing their own intellectual property and digital rights legislation to address the unique challenges posed by generative AI. Proactive Brand and Identity Protection: Companies and high-profile individuals within the GCC should consider proactive measures to protect their brand, reputation, and personal identity through available intellectual property mechanisms. As AI technologies continue to advance, the legal and regulatory landscape governing digital identities and intellectual property will undoubtedly evolve. This latest development underscores the critical need for continuous adaptation and robust legal strategies to safeguard against the unauthorized use and manipulation of digital personas in the contemporary environment.

UAE Pioneers AI-Powered Trademark Logo Generator to Enhance Regional Business Innovation The United Arab Emirates has introduced a significant advancement in its intellectual property framework with the launch of an innovative AI-powered “Logo Generator” feature. This new tool, developed by the UAE Trade Mark Office under the Ministry of Economy and Tourism (MOET) and integrated into the official trademark portal, is available free of charge. It signifies a proactive step towards embedding artificial intelligence within the nation’s trademark ecosystem, providing a valuable resource for businesses across the UAE and the wider GCC region. This initiative is specifically designed to support local enterprises, nascent startups, and small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) that may lack access to specialized branding agencies or internal design capabilities. The generator offers users a unique opportunity to explore logo concepts generated by referencing existing trademark data, thereby encouraging an early and informed consideration of intellectual property issues during the crucial brand development process. Understanding the AI Logo Generator The Logo Generator is an advanced AI-based feature that enables users to create logo concepts using simple written prompts. The system draws upon the extensive database of existing trademark data and records maintained within the Trade Mark Office. Practically, this tool empowers applicants to: Experiment with a diverse range of logo ideas during the initial stages of brand conceptualization. Explore various creative options before committing to a final design, fostering originality. Reduce the propensity to imitate familiar or widely recognized marks, promoting distinctiveness. Develop foundational visual identities without incurring immediate design costs. This capability is particularly beneficial for first-time applicants or smaller entities that might otherwise heavily rely on existing market references when forging a new brand identity. Upon generation, the system produces a logo report. It is important to note that this report does not confer final acceptance or approval of a trademark application, serving instead as a preliminary conceptual output. Maximising the Logo Generator’s Potential To leverage the Logo Generator effectively, users are advised to submit precise and clear prompts. These instructions can include various key elements: Key Prompt Elements: Text: Specific words or phrases to be incorporated. Initials: Acronyms or singular letters. Icon/Logo: Descriptions of desired imagery. Colours: Preferred colour palettes. Style: Aesthetic characteristics (e.g., minimal, modern, classic). Example Prompts: “Generate a logo with the text ‘Dubai Cafe’, featuring a palm tree icon, in a minimal style, using blue and white colours.” “Generate a circular logo with the initials ‘AR’ in dark grey.” The system also includes an “Amend” function to regenerate or adjust outputs. However, current amendments are automatically applied, with users unable to specify granular changes such as particular colours, fonts, or specific design elements. Future enhancements allowing for user-directed modifications could further boost the feature’s utility. Critical Considerations for Users Across the GCC While the AI Logo Generator presents a significant innovation, users are advised to be mindful of several key points: Similarity to Existing Marks: Users may find that some AI-generated logos bear visual resemblance or inspiration from existing registered or well-known trademarks, especially when prompts incorporate common industry keywords. Despite a platform disclaimer, non-specialist users might mistakenly assume AI-generated outputs are inherently “safe” or non-conflicting. It is crucial to: Regard generated logos solely as conceptual inspiration. Conduct thorough clearance searches and comprehensive legal assessments before adopting or filing any generated logo. Failing these steps carries a considerable risk of future application refusal or involvement in trademark disputes. System Performance and Usage Limits: The system permits multiple logo generation attempts within a single session. However, as logo generation can be time-consuming, sessions may expire before users conclude their exploration. Clearer guidance on usage limits, session durations, or attempt thresholds could help manage user expectations and enhance the overall experience. Language and Accessibility: Currently, the interface and disclaimer are primarily available in English. Given that the service is offered by a government authority to a broad, multilingual user base within the UAE and is relevant to the wider GCC, providing the service, particularly the crucial disclaimers, in both Arabic and English would significantly improve accessibility and ensure all users fully comprehend the legal limitations and risks associated with AI-generated designs. Preliminary Examination Feature: Although the system has seen speed improvements, the preliminary acceptance (initial examination) feature is not yet publicly visible and appears accessible only to examiners. Once activated for public use, it will be essential to: Clearly define the validity period of any preliminary examination result. Emphasize that such an outcome does not substitute the requirement to formally file a trademark application or complete the full registration process. This clarity is particularly vital for users unfamiliar with trademark procedures, who might otherwise misinterpret a preliminary result as final approval. Important Official Disclaimers and Expectations The Ministry of Economy and Tourism has explicitly stated that the Logo Generator is provided strictly for guidance purposes. Key official clarifications include: AI-generated logos and preliminary outputs do not constitute final acceptance or official approval. Registrability of any generated design is not guaranteed. The ultimate responsibility for ensuring compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and the rights of third parties rests solely with the applicant. Final acceptance or refusal of a trademark application remains subject to a comprehensive legal and technical examination process. Therefore, applicants should refrain from relying exclusively on AI-generated outputs when making decisions about adopting or filing a trademark application for a generated logo. Conclusion: The Significance for Regional Businesses This innovative initiative represents a forward-thinking move by the UAE towards: Fostering originality and creativity within the business community. Increasing early awareness of critical trademark considerations. Supporting innovation through the provision of accessible tools. Positioning artificial intelligence as a supportive aid rather than a replacement for expert professional advice. When utilized appropriately, the AI-powered Logo Generator serves as an invaluable starting point during the idea-generation phase of brand development, offering inspiration and foundational branding support to businesses. However, it does not negate the necessity for thorough clearance searches, comprehensive legal assessment, or expert professional counsel. Businesses and their representatives are encouraged to treat

Qatar’s Intellectual Property Office Announces Operational Adjustments and Subsequent Return to Normal Services Doha, Qatar – March 2026 – The Intellectual Property Department at Qatar’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) recently communicated temporary procedural adjustments impacting intellectual property matters, particularly those concerning trademarks. This announcement was followed by an update confirming the resumption of standard operations. Initially, the Department issued a circular outlining interim measures in response to unforeseen circumstances that necessitated remote working arrangements for its teams. These provisions aimed to mitigate any adverse effects on applicants and rights holders during the period of operational limitations. Temporary Flexibilities for Trademark Procedures During the period of remote operations, the Department indicated that trademark-related submissions with deadlines occurring within this timeframe would be accepted following the reinstatement of in-person services. This flexibility was designed to safeguard the interests of businesses and legal practitioners across the GCC. Extended Grace Period for Specified Payments Furthermore, the circular confirmed an upcoming grace period for certain trademark payments. The exact duration of this extension was to be determined by the Department’s management at a later stage. The affected payment categories included: Final registration fees Trademark renewal payments Publication fees Opposition filing fees Further clarity regarding the length of this grace period was anticipated as the situation stabilised. Electronic Submission Protocols For procedural actions requiring a response, the Department directed intellectual property agents to submit their replies electronically to designated departmental email addresses. This applied specifically to: Responses to trademark oppositions Responses to trademark decisions or office actions Responses to patent decisions and official actions Update: Normal Operations Resumed As of an update issued on March 11, 2026, the Qatar Trade Mark Office advised intellectual property agents that normal operations have resumed effectively since Monday, March 9, 2026. The Office confirmed its commitment to prioritising transactions with imminent deadlines. Enquiries are to be directed to the relevant department’s email addresses as before. This development is significant for intellectual property stakeholders and legal professionals throughout the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar with interests or pending matters in Qatar. The Ministry is expected to provide any additional guidance necessary as full normalcy is re-established.

German Nutrition and Wellness Firm Gears Up for UAE Market Entry, Prioritising Intellectual Property Protection A Germany-based consumer nutrition and wellness company, Fit Group AG, is preparing for a strategic expansion into the United Arab Emirates, signalling a growing interest from European firms in the dynamic GCC market. This move is part of the company’s broader internationalisation plans, which include extending its footprint across Europe and preparing for a public listing in March 2026. Strategic Market Entry and Intellectual Property Safeguards The planned entry into the UAE follows an initial European expansion into Spain, France, and Italy. A crucial step in this international strategy, particularly for the GCC market, has been the proactive securing of intellectual property rights. Fit Group AG has confirmed that trademark registrations for its proprietary brands have already been filed within these new target markets, including the UAE. This approach underscores the company’s commitment to safeguarding its brand identity and innovations within the region’s legal framework. Commenting on the expansion, Dilxwaz “Dili” Acar, CEO and Chairman of the Management Board, emphasised the alignment between consumer demand, robust retail infrastructure, and digital distribution channels in selected markets. This strategy aims to replicate the company’s successful model from the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) while maintaining operational discipline as it scales internationally. Product Portfolio and Digital-First Business Model Fit Group AG, which operates under its FGN – Fit Group Nutrition brand, offers a diverse product range. This includes dietary supplements such as Moringa, Ashwagandha, Shilajit, and Collagen, alongside proprietary blends like Manukajit, Tunnelblick, and Dedry. The company also distributes Fitgun massage guns. The company’s business model leans heavily on a digital-first approach, utilising online platforms and TikTok Shop alongside partnerships with established electronics retailers. Diyar Acar, CMO and Member of the Management Board, highlighted how this strategy allows for efficient product testing and messaging before scaling into retail, particularly appealing to younger consumer demographics. This digital engagement model will be key to navigating the specific advertising and consumer protection compliance considerations within the GCC region. Broader Corporate Growth and Governance Focus The expansion into the UAE is a significant component of Fit Group AG’s trajectory to evolve from a regional digital-first brand into a global consumer wellness enterprise. Alongside these market entries, the company is intensifying its preparations for an initial public offering targeted for March 2026 on the Vienna Stock Exchange. These preparations are focused on ensuring robust governance, transparency, and a clear pathway for long-term growth. The strategic push into the UAE market reflects the region’s increasing appeal for international businesses seeking to leverage its strong economic growth, sophisticated retail environment, and digitally connected consumer base, all while navigating the local business and regulatory landscape effectively.

New Administrative Decision Enhances Trademark Application Flexibility in Key GCC Economy A significant regulatory update has been introduced to streamline trademark registration processes and support business continuity in a prominent GCC jurisdiction. An administrative decision, identified as No. 2 of 2026, has been issued by the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, aimed at improving service delivery for trademark procedures, particularly concerning documentation requirements. This development provides crucial temporary extensions for certain trademark services, addressing challenges applicants may face in securing necessary certified documents within standard timelines. The move is expected to benefit businesses and intellectual property practitioners across the wider GCC region by fostering a more adaptive regulatory environment. Revised Procedures for Power of Attorney Submissions Under the new provisions, specific flexibility is now granted for new trademark applications only. Previously, if a power of attorney (POA) could not be submitted within the initial 90-day period, applications faced outright rejection without the possibility of appeal. The administrative decision overhauls this approach. The Trademark Office will now adopt a more accommodating stance, allowing monthly extensions to be granted after the initial 90-day deadline has passed. This change provides applicants with essential additional time to furnish a duly notarised and legalised power of attorney – or notarised for local entities – once such documentation becomes available. This amendment is designed to prevent unnecessary application rejections due to administrative delays in obtaining essential paperwork. Mechanism for Requesting Extensions To avail of these extended timelines, applicants or their designated representatives must proactively engage with the Trademark Department. A written request for an additional 30-day extension must be submitted before the expiration of the currently granted period. This structured approach ensures continuous communication and allows for the orderly processing of trademark applications. Cost Implications and Compliance Best Practices A welcome aspect of the new policy is that no additional official fees will be levied for these extensions. This provision lightens the financial burden on applicants while they navigate document procurement. Despite the increased flexibility, applicants are strongly advised to submit all required documents as swiftly as they become available. Prompt submission is crucial for maintaining ongoing compliance with filing regulations and ensuring the smooth progression of their trademark registration efforts. This regulatory adjustment reflects an ongoing commitment to enhancing the efficiency and user-friendliness of intellectual property protection frameworks within the region.

UAE Intellectual Property Enforcement Spotlighted in Recent Trademark Action A significant legal development in the United Arab Emirates has underscored the region’s robust framework for intellectual property protection. This case highlights the proactive measures available to brand owners seeking to safeguard their registered trademarks against unauthorised exploitation across key commercial sectors within the GCC. Proceedings were initiated by the legitimate proprietor of a registered trademark within the Emirates. The infringed mark encompasses a broad spectrum of categories critical to the consumer market, including various leather products, travel essentials, diverse apparel, footwear, and headwear, reflecting its wide commercial application. The plaintiff petitioned the court for comprehensive injunctive relief. This sought to prohibit the defendants from any activities involving the disputed mark or any confusingly similar iterations, specifically preventing its use, importation, sale, public display, or storage of associated products. Furthermore, the action aimed for the complete eradication of all instances of unauthorised brand deployment.