UAE Entity Files International Patent for Advanced Cardiac Research Technology Dubai, UAE – A significant milestone in the UAE’s biomedical innovation landscape has been reached with the filing of an international patent application under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) by First Stem Cell & Genomics Laboratory (FSG). The application pertains to a novel technology aimed at advancing cardiac research and regenerative medicine, reinforcing the UAE’s growing contribution to global scientific progress. Details of the Patent Application The patent application, titled “Scalable Generation of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cardiac Organoids,” outlines an innovative methodology for producing cardiac organoids. These lab-grown models mimic specific characteristics of human heart tissue, offering researchers a powerful tool to study heart disease development, cellular responses, and evaluate potential treatments in a controlled environment. The scalability aspect of this invention is particularly significant, as it promises to facilitate faster and more efficient research in cardiovascular disease, drug discovery, personalised medicine, and regenerative therapies. The innovation has already garnered international recognition, having received a positive examination report from the Korean Intellectual Property Office. This report confirms that the technology meets key patentability requirements, including novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability, underscoring the legal robustness and unique nature of the invention. Strategic Implications for UAE Innovation According to Dr. Fatma Alhashimi, CEO of First Stem Cell & Genomics Laboratory, this patent achievement is a testament to the ambition for Emirati science to make meaningful contributions to global healthcare. The initiative aligns with broader national strategies to strengthen the UAE’s position in advanced biomedical research and develop solutions with international impact. Such intellectual property filings are crucial for solidifying the UAE’s standing as a hub for scientific and technological innovation. Collaborative Development The development of this technology was a product of international scientific collaboration between First Stem Cell & Genomics Laboratory in the UAE and the Marga and Walter Boll Laboratory (MWBL) in Cologne, Germany. This partnership highlights the importance of cross-border collaboration in translating complex scientific discoveries into practical, patentable technologies. The underlying scientific research has been published in the peer-reviewed journal Theranostics, making the methodology and findings accessible to the global scientific and healthcare communities. This patent application marks a notable achievement for UAE-based institutions, demonstrating their capacity to generate impactful intellectual property in the life sciences sector and contribute to advancements that could shape the future of medicine.

UAE Initiates Formal Investigation into FlyDubai Flight Incident, Citing National Jurisdiction Dubai, UAE – United Arab Emirates prosecutors have launched a formal investigation into a serious incident that occurred aboard a FlyDubai flight en route from Dubai on Wednesday. The UAE Attorney General has ordered the inquiry to thoroughly establish the circumstances and motives behind the event, including determining any potential links to terrorist activity or prior planning. The incident involved an alleged assault on the captain by an unidentified co-pilot, who is currently in custody. The aircraft, registered in the UAE and operating under its flag, landed in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, following the event. UAE Asserts Legal Authority Over Incident UAE judicial authorities have confirmed their jurisdiction over the ongoing investigation. This assertion is based on the principle that offenses committed aboard a UAE-registered aircraft operating under its flag are subject to UAE law, irrespective of the geographical location where the incident transpires. This legal framework ensures that the UAE maintains sovereign legal authority over its national carriers and their operations. Scope of Attorney General’s Inquiry The Attorney General’s directive emphasizes a comprehensive investigation to uncover all pertinent details surrounding the incident. The inquiry will aim to clarify the sequence of events, identify the underlying motives, and assess any potential connections to organized criminal activity or premeditated acts. The unidentified co-pilot suspect remains in custody as the investigation proceeds. Captain’s Condition and Crew Status Following the landing in Saudi Arabia, the captain, Smit Machchhar, received initial medical treatment before being transferred to a hospital in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on Thursday for continued care. The remaining crew members of the flight were repatriated to Dubai. Authorities have assured the captain’s family of continuous support and updates regarding his health and recovery. Flight Incident Details Publicly available flight tracking data indicates that the aircraft experienced a rapid descent shortly after takeoff from Dubai. Emergency signals, including a change in the aircraft’s squawk code to “general emergency” and subsequently to indicate “unlawful interference,” were transmitted during the incident. The aircraft subsequently stabilized and landed safely in Tabuk. FlyDubai has confirmed that the flight “experienced an incident while en route” and landed as a precautionary measure.

UAE Entity Secures International Patent for Advanced Cardiac Research Technology Dubai, UAE – First Stem Cell & Genomics Laboratory (FSG), a leading UAE-based research institution, has announced the filing of an international patent application under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) for a groundbreaking technology in cardiac research and regenerative medicine. This development marks a significant intellectual property milestone for the United Arab Emirates in the biomedical sector. The patent application, titled “Scalable Generation of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cardiac Organoids,” represents a strategic move to secure global protection for an innovative scientific method. This advancement is poised to contribute to the global healthcare landscape while reinforcing the UAE’s growing capabilities in advanced biomedical innovation. Dr. Fatma Alhashimi, CEO of First Stem Cell & Genomics Laboratory, underscored the significance of this achievement. “This patent milestone reflects our ambition to ensure that Emirati science contributes meaningfully to the future of global healthcare,” stated Dr. Alhashimi. “Our goal is to develop innovations that address real medical challenges, strengthen the UAE’s position in advanced biomedical research, and create solutions that may improve the lives of future generations.” The technology provides a scalable method for producing cardiac organoids, which are laboratory-grown models mimicking human heart tissue characteristics. These models are crucial tools for studying heart disease development, understanding cellular responses, and evaluating potential treatments in controlled research environments. The ability to produce these organoids on a larger and more consistent scale is expected to accelerate research in cardiovascular disease, drug development, personalised medicine, and regenerative therapies. From a legal and regulatory perspective, the innovation has already received a positive examination report from the Korean Intellectual Property Office. This report confirms that the invention satisfies the key patentability requirements, including novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability, which are fundamental criteria for patent protection under international frameworks. The development of this technology was a result of an international scientific collaboration between First Stem Cell & Genomics Laboratory in the UAE and the Marga and Walter Boll Laboratory (MWBL) in Cologne, Germany. This partnership highlights the importance of cross-border scientific cooperation in complex research fields and the translation of laboratory discoveries into practically applicable technologies. The underlying scientific research has also been published in the peer-reviewed journal Theranostics, ensuring transparency and peer validation of the methodology. This patent filing underscores the UAE’s increasing investment in advanced healthcare, life sciences, and medical research, positioning local institutions as key contributors to global scientific progress and biomedical innovation. The strategic pursuit of international intellectual property rights, such as through the PCT system, is integral to safeguarding these advancements and facilitating their broader impact.

UAE University Expands Patent Portfolio, Reinforcing National Innovation Drive Abu Dhabi, UAE – The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) has recognised a group of its faculty, researchers, and inventors for successfully securing patents from the United States Patent and Trademark Office during 2024. A ceremony, attended by His Excellency Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to His Highness the President of the UAE and Chancellor of UAEU, celebrated 37 innovators for their significant contributions to research and technological advancement. The recognition underscores the UAE’s strategic commitment to fostering a robust intellectual property landscape and driving innovation. Chancellor Nusseibeh highlighted the vital role of these breakthroughs in national development and global progress. Strategic Growth in Intellectual Property Assets In 2024, UAEU registered 30 new patents, expanding its total intellectual property portfolio to 287 patents across various industries. This growth reflects the institution’s dedication to transforming conceptual ideas into tangible, commercially viable solutions. Chancellor Nusseibeh emphasised that these achievements not only strengthen collaborative partnerships with industry but also accelerate the commercialisation of cutting-edge research outcomes. He urged researchers to continue aligning their work with national priorities, thereby maximising the economic and intellectual impact of their innovations. Enhancing Global Competitiveness Through Innovation The university’s Intellectual Property Office was commended for its efforts in streamlining patent registration processes and actively promoting applied research. This institutional support is crucial for inventors navigating the complexities of patent acquisition. The newly patented innovations span a broad spectrum of fields, including chemical technology, materials science, environmental engineering, renewable energy, medical applications, advanced manufacturing, and artificial intelligence. These diverse contributions are vital for addressing both national and international challenges and are seen as key drivers for enhancing the UAE’s global competitiveness in innovation and technology.

UAE Laboratory Secures International Patent for Cardiac Research Innovation Dubai, UAE – An Emirati-based biotechnology firm, First Stem Cell & Genomics Laboratory (FSG), has achieved a significant milestone in intellectual property by filing an international patent application under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). This development underscores the UAE’s growing contribution to advanced biomedical research and innovation within the global legal framework for intellectual property protection. The patent application, titled “Scalable Generation of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cardiac Organoids,” outlines an innovative technology aimed at advancing cardiac research and regenerative medicine. This invention provides a scalable method for producing laboratory-grown models of human heart tissue, which are crucial for studying heart disease development, cellular responses, and evaluating potential treatments. Meeting Patentability Criteria A key aspect of this achievement is the positive examination report received from the Korean Intellectual Property Office. This report confirms that the innovation successfully meets the fundamental patentability requirements of novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability. Such an assessment is critical for establishing the legal enforceability and global recognition of the patent rights. Strategic International Collaboration The development of this technology was a result of an international scientific collaboration between FSG in the UAE and the Marga and Walter Boll Laboratory in Cologne, Germany. This partnership highlights the importance of cross-jurisdictional collaboration in complex scientific research, particularly in areas where intellectual property rights can have a far-reaching impact on commercial and medical applications. The successful patent filing positions the UAE as a hub for scientific endeavors that adhere to global standards of innovation and legal protection. Implications for Biomedical Innovation in the GCC This patent filing represents a strategic advancement for the UAE’s burgeoning life sciences sector. By securing international intellectual property protection, FSG is not only safeguarding its innovation but also enhancing the UAE’s standing in advanced biomedical research. The ability of UAE-based institutions to successfully navigate the international patent system reinforces the nation’s commitment to fostering a robust ecosystem for scientific discovery and the commercialization of cutting-edge technologies. This contributes to the broader regulatory landscape supporting innovation and intellectual property in the GCC region.

Emirati Biomedical Innovation Secures International Patent for Advanced Cardiac Research Technology A leading UAE-based biotechnology and advanced laboratory organisation has announced a significant intellectual property achievement following the submission of an international patent application under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). The patent pertains to an innovative technology poised to advance cardiac research and regenerative medicine. The patent application, titled “Scalable Generation of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cardiac Organoids,” marks a notable milestone for biomedical innovation originating from the United Arab Emirates. This development underscores the organisation’s dedication to developing practical scientific solutions with global potential. The innovation has already received a positive examination report from the Korean Intellectual Property Office, confirming its compliance with essential patentability criteria, including novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability. In essence, the technology introduces a scalable method for producing cardiac organoids, which are laboratory-grown models mimicking human heart tissue characteristics. These models are crucial for studying heart disease progression, understanding cellular responses to various conditions, and evaluating potential treatments within a controlled research setting. By enabling the consistent and large-scale production of these organoids, the technology is expected to facilitate faster and more efficient research in areas such as cardiovascular disease, drug development, personalised medicine, and regenerative therapies. The CEO of the organisation emphasised that this patent milestone reflects the ambition for Emirati science to make meaningful contributions to the future of global healthcare. The stated goal is to develop innovations that address critical medical challenges, thereby strengthening the UAE’s position in advanced biomedical research and creating solutions that could enhance the lives of future generations. It is important to note that this achievement provides an advanced scientific platform for researchers, rather than representing a direct treatment or cure for heart disease. The innovation resulted from an international scientific collaboration between the UAE-based entity and the Marga and Walter Boll Laboratory in Cologne, Germany, involving Prof. Kurt Pfannkuche and Dr. Sarkawt Hamad. This partnership combined specialist expertise in stem cell science, cardiac tissue modelling, and regenerative medicine, illustrating the importance of international collaboration in translating laboratory discoveries into practical technologies. The underlying scientific research supporting this innovation has been published in the peer-reviewed journal Theranostics. As the UAE continues its strategic investment in advanced healthcare, life sciences, and medical research, this intellectual property achievement highlights the increasing contribution of UAE-based institutions to global scientific progress and biomedical innovation. The organisation provides commercial services and products across stem cell banking, genomics, genetic testing, consumer genomics, and regenerative medicine, aiming to advance personalised healthcare and contribute to the future of life sciences within the UAE and beyond.

Abu Dhabi Court Orders Etisalat to Pay Dh30 Million for Patent Infringement, Cease Mobile TV Service Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Abu Dhabi First Instance Court has issued a significant ruling in an intellectual property dispute, ordering Emirates Telecommunications (Etisalat) to pay an Abu Dhabi resident Dh30 million in compensation and to halt its mobile television services. The decision follows a claim of patent infringement related to the technology underpinning Etisalat’s mobile TV offerings. The case was brought by Mosa Isa Mosa Al Amiri, who alleged that Etisalat utilised his patented invention without consent or knowledge, constituting a violation of his intellectual property rights. Mr. Al Amiri’s invention involves a system designed for transmitting high-quality video via the internet, a concept he contended was central to Etisalat’s mobile TV services, which allow subscribers to view satellite television content on their mobile devices for a monthly fee. Background to the Intellectual Property Claim Mr. Al Amiri secured approval for the registration of his invention on November 5, 2003, subsequently obtaining an international patent (No. BCT/1B2004/003630) approximately a year later. He further applied for local registration of his invention on March 6, 2006. Prior to legal action, Mr. Al Amiri sent warnings to Etisalat regarding the alleged exploitation of his invention, but stated that the responses received were unsatisfactory, leading to the initiation of the lawsuit. Initially seeking Dh20 million, the compensation claim was later increased to Dh100 million by his legal representation, citing moral and financial damages. Etisalat, in its defence, denied the accusations, asserting that its mobile TV system was acquired from a Chinese company, Huawei, and that no infringement had occurred. Court Proceedings and Expert Findings The judicial process involved several stages of expert evaluation. On May 5, 2009, the court appointed an initial expert to examine the claim. This expert’s report concluded there were no similarities between Mr. Al Amiri’s invention and the system deployed by Etisalat, corroborating the telecom firm’s position that it had purchased the system from a third party. Dissatisfied with these findings, the plaintiff requested the appointment of experts with specialised technical knowledge. The court then constituted a committee of three experts. This panel identified similarities between Mr. Al Amiri’s system and Etisalat’s technology, though it estimated the match to be less than 20 percent and stated that the plaintiff had not definitively proven a patent violation. Undeterred, Mr. Al Amiri appealed for a further expert assessment, specifically requesting a panel composed of patent experts. A third three-member committee was subsequently formed. This expert panel’s report proved decisive, affirming that Etisalat’s system was indeed based on the fundamental idea of the patented invention and confirming a violation of the plaintiff’s rights. Legal Basis for the Verdict Based on the conclusive findings of the final expert committee and in accordance with UAE Law No. 17 of 2002, which pertains to industrial regulation and the protection of patents, the Abu Dhabi First Instance Court rendered its verdict against Etisalat. The court’s decision underscores the robust legal framework in the UAE designed to protect intellectual property rights and reinforces the importance of respecting patented innovations within commercial operations.

UAE Patent Office Introduces Guidance for Divisional Patent Applications Dubai, UAE – The United Arab Emirates Patent Office has begun issuing recommendations within its examination reports for the filing of divisional patent applications, addressing a long-standing point of ambiguity in the nation’s patent framework. This move aims to provide clarity for applicants when an invention or group of inventions lacks unity, as required by existing law. While the current UAE Patent Law and its implementing regulations do not explicitly detail provisions for divisional patent applications, the Patent Office has acknowledged this legislative gap. The law stipulates that a single patent can be granted for an invention or a group of interrelated inventions that share “one general innovative concept.” Previously, it was unclear how the Patent Office would proceed in cases where an examination determined that this unity of invention was absent. In response to these scenarios, recent examination reports from the UAE Patent Office now specifically reference the absence of a formal divisional application route to remedy a finding of lack of unity of invention. Consequently, the reports advise applicants to file a new divisional application with the UAE Patent Office, directly invoking the principles of the Paris Convention. As a signatory to the Paris Convention, the UAE is bound by its provisions, which have direct legal effect within the country, implicitly supporting mechanisms like divisional applications. For applicants opting to follow this recommendation, the guidance stipulates that any such divisional application must not extend beyond the disclosure contained in the original patent application. Furthermore, the newly filed application must explicitly reference the original application from which the division is sought. This operational adjustment by the Patent Office is seen as a proactive measure to enhance the patent application process, particularly for complex inventions. Looking ahead, it is widely anticipated that forthcoming revisions to the UAE Patent Law will formally integrate and codify specific provisions for divisional applications, thereby providing a clear legislative basis for this practice.