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Do you want to start your business in the UAE? You can select the best trade locations, the most
appealing names, and the most profitable companies. However, the United Arab Emirates government
considers brand identity and recognition. Each business opts for trademark registration in the UAE to get
its products, services, or brand value distinguished from others.
Trademark registration is one of the most significant steps to follow if you want to run a business in the
UAE. Fortunately, the UAE authorities provide feasible and convenient long-term registration plans that
are easy to access and follow.
What Is A Trademark And Why Do You Need It?
A trademark includes a word, or words legally registered that represents a company or a product.
Starting or expanding a business in the UAE has its perks; from registration of documents to completing
paperwork formalities. These formalities include the registration of a trademark.
Trademark registration is one of the integral works needed to make a brand recognizable. Here are the
following benefits a business can enjoy.
Ownership
Trademark lets you enjoy ownership of your brand. Trademark becomes an identity of your company
because it is personalized according to the business owner’s requirements. It creates the brand’s
credibility.
Easy identification
Some companies can have similar names or logos. However, a trademark makes the brand stand
different and identifiable. Eventually, it creates a reputation for the company and helps create
perceptions about the business type.
Copyright protection
A trademark comes with copyright protection. In case the business has conflicting marks or conflicting
names, the business owner can proceed with legal matters to deal with under the UAE business
registration terms.
Brand value
Finally, a trademark creates the brand value of the business. The identification trademark will help
companies benefit from the brand value and more leads.
Are Eligible To Submit A Trademark Application?
The business owner has to register for trademarks in the UAE and other countries if he/she wants to
make their goods or services different. As per Federal Law No. 37 of 1992 on trademarks, the following
people are eligible to apply for trademark registrations:
- People who work in any economic, technological, technical, service sector, natural or artificial persons.
- Foreigners working in any sector related to economy technology, or other services.
What To Register As A Trademark In The UAE?
The UAE government offers ample options for you. You can be creative when choosing a trademark.
However, you need to select themes and illustrations that adhere to government policies.
Labels such as signatures, titles, seals, characters, names, paintings, engravings, and seals can be
trademarked.
On the other hand, banknote designs, geographical names, or anything that can mislead the public
cannot be used. Similarly, the following labels cannot be used for trademarks:
- Anything that affects public morals
- Symbols such as eyes or flags (like Red Cross symbols)
- Titles and names of third parties
- Already used trademarks.
- Steps to register a trademark in the UAE
How To Register Trademark In The UAE?
Select a business name
Select a business name that fulfills the naming standards in the UAE. As a startup owner, you can list
down some names and analyze them as per the naming criteria set by regulatory authorities in the UAE.
Check the name’s availability
As you are selecting the name, you can check if the name complies with the authority standards. You
can then check the name’s availability as per the naming regulations.
Make a reservation for a trademark
After you have selected the name, you can make reservations for a trademark. The reservation and
naming are necessary to obtain a business license and perform other legal matters. The online portal of
the Department of Economic Development (DED) is easily accessible and you can submit your
application online. After you apply, it can take a few days to issue the trademark.
Pay fees and other formalities
Finally, the applicant has to pay the fees and other expenses involved in the process. You can pay
digitally or in person in the department. As per the details, a trademark reservation in the UAE can cost
AED 620. Whereas, you are liable to pay extra for special characters and other modifications.
How Much Does Trademark Registration Cost?
The applicant has to pay AED 10,500 to register a trademark in the UAE. But, you have to pay extra for
legal or translation expenses.
The candidate can pay the fee on the Ministry of Economy’s website. Ensure to provide correct
information and review your application before paying to avoid rejection in case of incorrect or missing
information.
The Ministry of Economy provides trademark registration approval within 30 days.
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Validity Of Trademark Registration In The UAE
Per the guidelines, the trademark issued is typically valid for 10 years as the applicant can enjoy long-
term validity. After 10 years, the applicant can renew the trademark. This registration would only work
in the UAE.
Can You Renew Your Trademark?
After a validity of 10 years, the applicant can renew the trademark by fulfilling the requirements. The
business owner has three months from the date of expiry to renew the trademark. In case of delay, the
owner has to pay AED 1000 (per month).
To renew the trademark,
Visit the UAE Ministry of Economy website. There, you can find the trademarks option under the
services heading.
- Select modification and maintenance services
- Select trademark renewal from the menu
- Publish a copy of your original trademark registration certificate. Then, include it in your
- renewal application
- Pay the fees.
Start Your Business Journey with the Right Name
Choosing and registering the right trade name is a vital first step in your business journey in the UAE. At Emifast, we’re committed to guiding you through this process, ensuring that your business starts on a strong footing. Contact us to learn more about trade name registration and how we can assist you in making your business dream a reality in the UAE.