UAE Authorities Issue Strong Warning on Online Counterfeit Goods and Trademark Infringement Dubai, UAE – Regulatory authorities in the United Arab Emirates have intensified warnings to social media users, online influencers, and e-commerce platforms regarding the promotion and sale of counterfeit products. Violators face significant legal consequences under stringent UAE laws designed to protect intellectual property and safeguard consumer trust across the region. The directive, issued by the Anti-Economic Crimes Department of the General Department of Criminal Investigation in Dubai, comes amidst a discernible increase in cases involving illicit goods advertised and distributed via digital channels. This enforcement focus underscores the commitment of GCC nations to uphold robust legal frameworks against commercial fraud and intellectual property violations. Legal Ramifications for Counterfeit Sales Officials noted that some individuals, particularly younger entrepreneurs, may mistakenly perceive the online sale of imitation luxury items as a benign supplementary income stream. However, promoting or selling counterfeit watches, perfumes, apparel, accessories, and other branded merchandise constitutes a direct breach of intellectual property and trademark legislation within the UAE. Specifically, authorities highlighted that such activities contravene Federal Law No. 36 of 2021, which provides comprehensive protection for trademark owners and explicitly prohibits the unauthorised use or imitation of registered brands. This legislative framework is a cornerstone of the UAE’s efforts to foster a secure and compliant business environment, echoing similar protections enacted across Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman. Accountability and Due Diligence The warning also addressed deceptive practices employed by illicit commercial accounts, which frequently target young users and influencers with promises of quick profits in exchange for promoting counterfeit items on their personal social media accounts. Authorities stressed the fundamental legal principle that ignorance of the law does not exempt any individual from liability. This means individuals can still face legal repercussions even if they claim unawareness of the products’ counterfeit nature or illegal sourcing. Broader Economic and Reputational Impact Beyond the immediate legal penalties, regulatory bodies cautioned that the illegal online trade in counterfeit goods inflicts substantial damage on brand reputations, misleads consumers, erodes trust within follower bases, and negatively impacts the broader economy and legitimate regulated markets. The proliferation of fake products undermines fair competition and deters investment in innovation and authentic brands. In light of these concerns, influencers, e-commerce sellers, and online business operators across the GCC are strongly urged to exercise enhanced due diligence. Key recommendations include: Thorough Supplier Verification: Meticulously verify the legitimacy and credentials of all product suppliers. Avoidance of Suspicious Parties: Refrain from engaging with unknown or questionable sources of goods. Ensuring Authenticity Documentation: Demand and verify legal licenses and official invoices that unequivocally prove the authenticity and legal sourcing of all products offered for sale. This heightened scrutiny from UAE authorities serves as a critical reminder for all individuals and entities involved in online commerce within the GCC region to strictly adhere to intellectual property laws and commercial regulations, ensuring ethical and legal business practices.

Regional and Global Intellectual Property Landscape: Key Developments for GCC Businesses Across the Arabian Gulf, businesses and legal practitioners are closely monitoring a dynamic environment of intellectual property (IP) developments, both within the region and internationally. Recent updates highlight a clear trend towards procedural simplification, digital integration, and strategic engagement with emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence, alongside continued efforts to bolster global IP protection frameworks. Key GCC Intellectual Property Updates United Arab Emirates Streamlines Trademark Post-Registration Procedures The Ministry of Economy in the United Arab Emirates has recently enhanced its digital trademark filing system. This significant update removes the previous requirement for submitting physical copies of registration or renewal certificates when undertaking certain post-registration actions. This procedural streamlining is expected to reduce administrative burden and expedite various trademark-related processes for businesses operating in the UAE, aligning with the nation’s broader digitalization agenda. Qatar Expands Trademark Registration to All Nice Classification Classes In a notable development for intellectual property rights in Qatar, the Qatar Trademark Office officially confirmed on March 29, 2026, that all classes under the 2026 version of the 13th edition of the International Classification of Goods and Services for the Purposes of the Registration of Marks (Nice Classification) are now available for trademark registration. This expansion includes Class 33, signifying a comprehensive approach to protecting a wider array of goods and services within the Qatari market and offering greater certainty for brand owners. International IP System Enhancements Brazil Joins Madrid e-Filing System The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has announced that Brazil has integrated into the Madrid e-Filing service for international trademark registrations. Brazil is now the 41st member state of the Madrid System and the first country in Latin America to implement this WIPO-developed electronic filing service. This enhancement simplifies the process for businesses globally, including those from the GCC, seeking trademark protection in Brazil through the Madrid Protocol. Revised Madrid Protocol Fees for Zambia On March 12, 2026, the Director General of WIPO announced revised individual fees for designating Zambia in international trademark applications or renewals under the Madrid Agreement and Protocol. These adjustments are in accordance with the Common Regulations governing the Madrid System and are relevant for GCC entities with commercial interests or trademark registration strategies involving Zambia. WIPO Consults on Madrid System Certificate Issuance The World Intellectual Property Organization has launched a survey inviting feedback on whether designated offices under the Madrid System should be obligated to issue national or regional certificates upon granting protection or renewing an international registration. This consultation reflects ongoing efforts to optimize the Madrid System and ensure its efficiency for all users, including those in the GCC. Global Regulatory and Technological Trends Argentina Simplifies IP and Technology Transfer Processes On March 31, 2026, Argentina’s National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) introduced new measures aimed at simplifying the registration of technology transfer agreements and accelerating trademark registration procedures. These reforms are designed to foster innovation and streamline IP administration within Argentina, a development that may interest GCC businesses exploring market opportunities in the region. Hong Kong Enhances Electronic IP Services The Intellectual Property Department (IPD) of Hong Kong has updated its E-Filing System, introducing new rules for the electronic service of documents for trademarks, patents, and designs. This move underscores the global shift towards digital platforms for intellectual property administration, a trend keenly observed and often mirrored by GCC jurisdictions. European Union Intensifies Efforts Against Online Counterfeiting The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) and the European Commission have entered into a five-year agreement under the Digital Services Act (DSA). This collaboration aims to bolster actions against online counterfeiting and piracy, addressing a critical challenge for brand owners worldwide. The initiative highlights a concerted effort to enforce IP rights in the digital sphere, a matter of increasing relevance for all global markets, including the GCC. Advancements in Artificial Intelligence for IP Management The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into IP management continues to gain momentum: USPTO Introduces AI for Trademark Classification: On March 19, 2026, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) unveiled Class ACT, an AI-powered tool designed to automate trademark classification tasks. This innovation represents a significant step towards enhancing efficiency in IP office operations. WIPO Launches AI Infrastructure Interchange: On March 17, 2026, WIPO established the Artificial Intelligence Infrastructure Interchange (AIII), a new platform dedicated to fostering expert dialogue on the intersection of intellectual property and artificial intelligence. This initiative aims to shape policy and best practices in this evolving domain. These developments collectively illustrate a global commitment to modernizing and strengthening intellectual property protection and enforcement. For businesses and legal professionals across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar, staying informed on these trends is crucial for navigating the complexities of the international IP landscape and leveraging opportunities for growth and innovation.

Regional Industrialisation Drives Strategic Talent and Intellectual Property Shifts Dubai, UAE | Riyadh, Saudi Arabia | Muscat, Oman | Manama, Bahrain | Kuwait City, Kuwait | Doha, Qatar – The evolving landscape of industrialisation and technological self-sufficiency across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states has significantly influenced global talent mobility and the strategic acquisition of intellectual property (IP), particularly within the advanced manufacturing and defence sectors. Recent internal corporate assessments highlight a notable migration of skilled personnel and proprietary knowledge from established international entities towards the Middle East. Strategic Regional Development and Collaboration GCC nations, particularly the UAE and Saudi Arabia, have intensified efforts to develop indigenous defence capabilities and foster advanced industrial ecosystems. This drive has led to targeted initiatives aimed at acquiring expertise in critical areas such as missile technology, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and guided weapons systems. Initial collaborative frameworks were established between prominent Emirati and Saudi entities, including King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI), EDGE, and Tawazun. These regional organisations engaged with international partners like South Africa’s Denel, Epsilon Engineering, Incomar, and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to enhance local proficiencies in key defence technologies. A prime example of these early partnerships is the Tawazun Dynamics joint venture, which was established in 2012. This venture, which later transitioned to Barij Dynamics in 2018 and subsequently to Al TARIQ in 2019, underscored the potential for lucrative contracts and shared technological advancement, including for international participants. Talent Acquisition and Evolving Dynamics Around 2016, a confluence of internal operational challenges faced by Denel and the UAE’s accelerated defence industrialisation strategy led to a shift in talent acquisition dynamics. The establishment of EDGE, with HALCON as its missiles division and ADASI as its UAV division, coincided with these developments. HALCON and ADASI actively recruited key professionals from organisations such as Denel and CSIR, specifically targeting individuals previously involved in joint projects. This recruitment approach also encouraged newly onboarded personnel to re-establish contact with former colleagues to access crucial data and design insights, marking a transition from cooperative development to competitive talent acquisition. The recruitment strategy systematically focused on identifying and securing senior personnel across various projects. This scope expanded as operational difficulties in the originating entity intensified. Recruiters reportedly offered substantial salary increases, alongside relocation opportunities to the UAE or alternative placements. In some instances, recruitment efforts were direct and explicit, with senior executives reportedly presenting career opportunities to entire engineering teams in person. Intellectual Property Safeguards and Compliance Failures Internal corporate analyses indicate that contractual frameworks lacked robust provisions for intellectual property protection and non-compete agreements. Employees often operated without non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) or non-compete clauses, allowing them to engage with former colleagues for technical data or general inquiries without facing contractual repercussions. Investigations by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) in South Africa have uncovered instances of alleged improper transfer of intellectual property. One such inquiry focused on the transfer of IP valued at R328 million to HALCON. The SIU findings revealed that the misappropriation of IP was allegedly conducted through unauthorised means to benefit foreign entities, specifically SAMI and Barij Dynamics. Details from the SIU probe in 2021 indicated that certain data packs belonging to Denel Dynamics, relating to Mkhonto, Ingwe, and Mokopa missiles, were unlawfully downloaded from internal servers. While SAMI had previously shown interest in these missile systems and held a meeting with Denel in February 2018, the meeting reportedly collapsed due to SAMI’s refusal to sign a non-disclosure agreement. Despite this, instructions were allegedly issued to junior members to download and share the information. Three former senior officials, including a Denel Dynamics CEO, who subsequently joined SAMI, are reportedly implicated in these events. Regarding Barij Dynamics and HALCON, the SIU also investigated the alleged unlawful transfer of IP pertaining to P2 and P3 missiles. This was reportedly executed under the guise of an authorisation letter signed by a former Denel Dynamics member also involved in the SAMI data pack incident. Furthermore, an official at Denel allegedly signed off on Barij Dynamics Board minutes authorising the transfer of P2 and P3 missile IP to HALCON without appropriate board or executive authorisation from Denel. However, it is understood that the P2 and P3 systems were primarily developed and financed by Barij Dynamics. Consequently, Denel may not have retained full intellectual property rights over these specific weapon systems. The P2 is a low-cost, medium-range guided munition, initially designed for use with specific unmanned aerial vehicles. The P3, known as Sejeel, is a guided bomb kit developed abroad and produced in the UAE, enhancing Mk 81 and Mk 82 bombs with guidance capabilities. The Sejeel has been in production for the UAE armed forces since 2017 and is actively promoted for export. Impact of Operational Challenges on Talent Drain The period between 2012 and 2015 saw a significant exodus of technical expertise from organisations like Denel. Estimates suggested over 300 former employees were working in the UAE by then. Tawazun consistently recruited senior staff identified as holding crucial data on projects such as Al TARIQ and other systems. These aggressive recruitment tactics reportedly predated severe operational challenges faced by Denel. The subsequent inability to pay full salaries and internal instability merely intensified the ongoing migration of personnel. EDGE, HALCON, and ADASI are noted to have actively recruited staff for several years. This movement of talent reportedly contributed to the appearance of systems initially developed by Denel under different names within Middle Eastern portfolios. Examples include the Cheetah C-RAM (counter-rocket, artillery and mortar) system being re-engineered as HALCON’s SkyKnight, and evolutions of the P2/P3 appearing in HALCON’s guided munitions catalogue. Further assessments underscore that the primary objective in these talent acquisition efforts was not necessarily the direct acquisition of IP rights, but rather securing individuals possessing the core IP-related knowledge and technical expertise. Reports finalised in late 2024 indicated that recruited engineers continued to seek assistance from former colleagues regarding data packs, CAD designs, and general organisational processes. The

UAE Enhances Trade Mark Registration Framework with New Ministerial Decision The United Arab Emirates continues to fortify its intellectual property landscape, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to fostering innovation and protecting commercial rights. A pivotal development in this ongoing effort is Ministerial Decision No. (90) of 2024, which governs the Regulation of Trade Mark Registration Agents. This landmark decision aims to elevate the standards of professionalism, operational efficiency, and transparency within the trade mark registration sector, aligning the UAE with global best practices and benefiting the broader GCC region. To facilitate a comprehensive understanding of this new directive, the Trade Mark Office (TMO) recently convened a dedicated session on September 18, 2025. During this engagement, officials presented the core provisions of the regulation and facilitated an open forum for dialogue with professionals engaged in trade mark services. Clarifying Professional Development Requirements A key element of the new regulation that has garnered significant attention pertains to the role of training courses in the registration and renewal processes for trade mark agents. The Ministerial Decision acknowledges continuous professional development as an essential component for maintaining high levels of competence. The Trade Mark Office has clarified that participation in training programs will not be a blanket requirement for all agents. Instead, each application will undergo an individual assessment. This evaluation will consider the applicant’s professional background, qualifications, and established experience before determining whether specific training is appropriate. This tailored approach introduces valuable flexibility. For instance, seasoned professionals with extensive experience, potentially exceeding 15 years in the field, may not be required to re-attend foundational level training. Conversely, newer entrants to the profession or those submitting renewal applications might be requested to complete a course to ensure their knowledge of current procedures is up-to-date. The TMO also encourages all agents, including those with substantial experience, to voluntarily engage in selected training sessions to refresh their expertise and foster constructive exchange with the Trade Mark Office. Anticipated Further Guidance and Engagement The introduction of these new provisions naturally prompts questions, many of which were raised during the September session and indicate areas for future clarification: Participant Scope: Will the training be directed primarily at lead agents, or will administrative personnel involved in the filing workflow also be encouraged to participate? Language of Instruction: In light of the diverse professional community across the UAE and the wider GCC, will the courses be offered in Arabic, English, or both languages? Scheduling and Frequency: What will be the typical frequency and timing for these professional development programs? Institutional Collaboration: The Ministry has indicated that future courses will be offered in collaboration with the Emirates Intellectual Property Association (EIPA). Schedules and registration details are anticipated to be published on the EIPA’s official channels. These ongoing discussions underscore the Ministry’s commitment to collaborative engagement, ensuring that the training framework is refined in consultation with professionals operating within the intellectual property domain. Shaping the Future of Trade Mark Services It is clear that capacity building and continuous training will remain cornerstones of trade mark agent regulation in the UAE. These initiatives are designed not merely as procedural formalities but as vital mechanisms to strengthen professional practice, enhance service delivery, and build greater confidence in the national registration system. Ultimately, the necessity for an agent to attend a specific course will be determined by the TMO’s evaluation of each individual application, ensuring a balanced approach that is both fair and adaptable while promoting professional growth. Professionals who choose to engage with these educational opportunities stand to gain valuable insights into procedural updates, international developments, and practical knowledge. All trade mark agents are encouraged to regularly monitor the Emirates Intellectual Property Association website for upcoming announcements regarding course availability and registration information. Conclusion Ministerial Decision No. (90) of 2024 marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of the trade mark profession within the UAE. While the core principles of the regulation are clearly defined, the ongoing dialogue surrounding training requirements highlights that this is a dynamic framework designed for continuous adaptation, incorporating input from professionals and under the oversight of the Trade Mark Office. As this system matures, businesses and professionals are encouraged to actively engage, seek clarity directly from the Trade Mark Office, and participate in Ministry-endorsed courses. Such engagement represents a strategic investment in professional advancement and a means of maintaining alignment with evolving best practices. Through sustained active participation and open communication, the objectives of this new regulation can be fully realized, bringing significant benefits to the entire intellectual property ecosystem across the UAE and the wider GCC.

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.

The UAE’s Ministry of Economy and Tourism on Tuesday announced a 50 per cent reduction in all trademark fees for its National SME Programme members. Under the new amendments, the ministry announced that people of determination are fully exempted from the trademark services fees. The ministry also set the fees for 28 trademark services, including amendments to some service fees, integration, and the introduction of new services. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. Notable changes include the fee for filing an infringement complaint, which is set at Dh2,250, and the fee for a grievance by the party against whom the objection was dismissed which is set at Dh7,500. The trademark fees are collected for a single category if the application includes only one category, and separately for each category in the case of multiple categories, even if submitted within a single application. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, said this decision will enhance the UAE’s “attractiveness to international investors, attracting global companies, and supporting SME owners and people of determination”. The National Programme for Small and Medium Enterprises and Projects is aimed at supporting UAE entrepreneurs to strategise and satisfy their needs, as well as grow and sustain their business in collaboration with all stakeholders. Dr Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini, assistant undersecretary for the intellectual property (IP) sector at the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, said any company registered with the National SME Programme can apply for the 50 per cent discount. “This will support and increase the number of registrations in our database,” he said. In addition, seven new trademark services were also approved. These include registration of a geographical indication at Dh6,500; one-day trademark examination at Dh2,250; grievance against trademark cancellation at Dh5,000; conversion of a national trademark to international at Dh400; trademark agent registration renewal (branch of a foreign company) at Dh7,500; grievance against trademark registration refusal at Dh5,000; and examination and study of claims at Dh2,250. The ministry also consolidated fees for four services related to trademark renewal. These include renewal of trademark protection period during the final year of protection at Dh5,750; renewal within six months after the protection period ends at Dh6,500; renewal of monitoring and inspection mark during the final year of protection at Dh8,250; and renewal of monitoring and inspection mark within six months after the protection period ends at Dh9,750. Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, said a host of initiatives have been taken by the ministry to support innovation in the country which include the establishment of the Geographical Indications (GI) system for national products; joining the Madrid Protocol in 2021, enabling SME owners to register their trademarks locally and expand internationally; the ‘One Day TM Initiative,’ which accelerates trademark registration processes and facilitates the digital transformation of services among others. Abdulla Al Marri pointed out that the Ministry of Economy and Tourism registered 19,957 national and international trademarks during the first half of this year, representing a 129 per cent growth compared to 8,711 trademarks registered in the first half of 2024, reflecting the notable growth in trademark registrations within the UAE markets. The total number of registered national and international trademarks in the UAE reached 402,311 by the end of September 2025.

Updated as of: 17 November 2025 The UAE’s trademark reforms promise rapid filings and tougher enforcement, meaning legal and compliance teams must adapt quickly to accelerated examination cycles and more formalised dispute procedures. Filed under Topics Organisations

Berk Kutay Gokmen 18 November 2025•Update: 18 November 2025 ISTANBUL South Korea and the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday signed several agreements to enhance bilateral ties in various sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), aerospace, and nuclear energy. The agreements were inked as UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan hosted his South Korean counterpart, Lee Jae Myung, in Abu Dhabi, Seoul’s presidential office said. The two nations signed seven memorandums of understanding (MoUs) to expand collaboration in several sectors, including AI, aerospace and nuclear energy, economy, and intellectual property rights, as reported by Yonhap News. During the meeting between the two heads of state, Lee and Mohammed discussed ways to deepen economic cooperation in the defense, advanced technology, and energy sectors. Lee described the UAE as a “brotherly nation” and pledged to build a stronger relationship aligned with the UAE’s long-term development roadmap. South Korea is “ready for comprehensive cooperation to build the centennial alliance with the UAE,” Lee said. “There are many important areas, including security, the defense industry, AI, nuclear energy, health care, and medical services. I hope the two countries make bold steps toward shared prosperity.” During the talks, the two nations also discussed ways to expand cooperation in the defense industry, including the joint development, production, and export of weapons systems to third countries. In the energy sector, the two sides discussed expanding the crude oil stockpile held in South Korea by the UAE’s state-run energy giant, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, from the current 4 million barrels to 10 million barrels or more. Last year, the UAE and South Korea signed a free trade deal, which made the UAE the first Middle Eastern nation to ink such a deal with Seoul.

WASHINGTON – The United States on Feb 24 issued Russia and cyber-related sanctions against four people and three entities, including some based in Russia and the United Arab Emirates, according to the Treasury Department website. The entities and people were targeted “for their acquisition and distribution of cybertools harmful to US national security”, the Treasury Department said in a statement. In a corresponding move, the US Department of State said one of the individuals and two of the entities hit with sanctions were also designated under the “Protecting American Intellectual Property Act in connection with theft of trade secrets from US persons”. The sanctions are related to a US investigation into a former executive of a government contractor for selling trade secrets to a buyer in Russia – one of the entities hit with sanctions – for US$1.3 million (S$1.6 million). REUTERS

The adoption of AI across the globe is proceeding at a rapid pace. Disruption in many sectors has been attributed to the use of AI models in various industries. This has led many jurisdictions to play catch-up to both regulate and foster AI. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has been quite proactive in this regard. The UAE, at the forefront, has implemented national policies regarding the adoption of AI across government services. In recent years, the country has updated legislation, procedures, and policies, including new intellectual property (IP) legislation, data privacy regulations, and competition laws, among other changes. However, no GCC country has yet adopted a full national legislation. AI is regulated with a combination of different federal, sectoral, and existing laws, although regulations are being worked on. These are supplemented by the adoption of policies and principles. The UAE is divided into seven emirates. Federal law applies to each one, while each emirate has also promulgated its own laws. In addition, the UAE allows the operation of several free zones, which are economic areas distinct from onshore areas that have regulatory schemes, rules, and exemptions for conducting business related to specific sectors. Many free zones – such as the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the Abu Dhabi Global Market, and Dubai Silicon Oasis – offer licences geared towards AI companies that offer tax benefits, visas, etc. For example, DIFC has an AI-specific licence aimed towards entrepreneurs in that space (see “UAE launches ground-breaking artificial intelligence and coding license”). Key legislative and policy pillars The UAE updated several components of its IP legislation in 2021, including its Patent Law, Trademark Law, and Copyright Law. There were also updates to the Data Protection Law. None of the laws specify or have references to AI (it is worth noting, however, that the DIFC amended its Data Protection Law to incorporate the processing of data via autonomous and semi-autonomous systems, including AI). The UAE has also adopted its National AI Strategy 2031 as an integral part of its policy on AI since 2017. The main objective of the strategy is to facilitate the integration of AI and related technologies across different sectors, with the long-term aim to position the UAE as a forerunner in AI innovation and investments. Furthermore, the UAE established the UAE Council for Artificial Intelligence, which is tasked with the supervision and providing guidance regarding the integration of AI in government entities. Entities are also being set up within each emirate. For instance, the Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council has been formed to support Abu Dhabi’s vision to be a leader in research and investment related to AI. Similarly, Dubai set up the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence and the Dubai Future Council on Artificial Intelligence. In the absence of an express federal legislation, existing laws may be used to fill in the gap. Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2021 on Copyright and Neighboring Rights, along with its implementing regulation (Cabinet Resolution No. 47 of 2022), outlines the rights of copyright holders and their licensing, which governs the use of IP by third parties, particularly in training data. The UAE does not recognise “fair use” as understood in the US but has concepts of fair dealing; i.e., the use of copyright content for educational purposes. Federal Decree by Law No. 45 of 2021 Concerning the Protection of Personal Data applies to the electronic processing of data related to residents in the UAE. It requires the lawful processing of personal data, consent focused data collection, and requirements for having filters for output deemed unlawful. Licensing innovation and future technologies Federal Decree Law No. 25 of 2018 on the Projects of Future Nature gives the federal government the authority to grant licences for “implementation of any innovative project based on modern technologies of a future character or using artificial intelligence”. Prohibitions that would normally apply in obtaining a licence would be exempt for these companies. However, the law does not define AI or innovative project, so the law is applied on a case-by-case basis, with the onus on the entity seeking exemptions to show innovation. On top of these, developers and users of AI systems need to pay attention to the UAE Civil Code, the Consumer Protection Code, and the Cybercrimes Law as the laws could make them liable for negligence, defectiveness, and liability for products and/or services. Sector-specific regulation and financial services Industry-specific legislation or guidelines also need review; however, some of these matters are also governed by each emirate in addition to federal law. For example, Dubai’s Autonomous Vehicles Regulation (Law No. 9 of 2023) applies throughout the emirate and even in free zones. It prohibits any autonomous vehicle from operating on the roads in Dubai without the necessary licence from the authorities. The Roads and Transport Authority sets out the compliance that vehicles must adhere to. Similarly, the Central Bank of the UAE has issued the “Guidelines for Financial Institutions Adopting Enabling Technologies”, which covers AI, analytics, blockchain, verification through biometrics, etc. Under the current standards of IP law, an AI cannot own or register IP under its own name. The UAE Law on Industrial Property states (and as per the practice) only a natural person can be named an inventor. Similarly, only a natural person can be the owner of a trademark or have copyright assigned to them (including a company). There are no restrictions on using AI to create new trademarks (that fall under the definition of trademarks) or works, but they are subject to the IP laws if they are created using infringing material. Similarly, data and content obtained from data scraping is subject to the terms and conditions of that website; however, there are no known cases of enforcement of a website’s terms and conditions. Competition law and AI-driven markets Under Article 3 of Federal Decree-Law No. 36 of 2023 Regarding Regulating Competition, the Competition Law applies to all undertakings with regard to the exploitation of IP rights inside and outside the UAE.