Businesses and companies in Dubai, both in the free zones or as mainland businesses, typically require trademark registration. Having a trademark allows for the product or the service to be distinctive for consumers, allows for branding and marketing and also ensures your company stands apart from the competition.
Within the UAE, as in most areas of the world, trademarks must be distinct and different from other registered trademarks in use. This prevents a start-up company from simply copying or approximating an existing trademark to attempt to take advantage of the existing company’s reputation and marketing.
There are several steps in the trademark registration process in the UAE. A lawyer with experience in corporate and business law can be instrumental in assisting in managing the process. These lawyers also ensure all paperwork for applications is complete and correctly filled out to prevent delays or rejections of the trademark application.
Initial Research
The first step in the process is to make sure there is no company currently using the desired trademark or one that is similar. A law firm can assist with the search process.
Once it has been established the trademark is not currently in use, the rest of the application process can proceed. This includes submitting the complete application and all drawings of the trademark required to the Ministry of Economy and Commerce.
The Ministry will review the application and the submitted trademark to verify it does not violate any of the rules about trademarks in Dubai and throughout the UAE. If approved by the Ministry, the trademark information must be published in two Arabic newsletters to allow the public to respond.
If there is no response from the public, the final trademark registration is approved. The trademark owner also needs to pay the fee and ensure the trademark is renewed to maintain the right to use the trademark. Visit the website https://www.stalawfirm.com/ for more information.
