The United Arab Emirates (UAE) implemented a new national trademark law, effective January 2, 2022, which covers various aspects related to trademark applications, registrations, and maintenance.

Under the legal amendments, the UAE has expanded its definition of trademarks to include non-traditional types. Applicants can now seek protection for sound, voice, scent marks, as well as holographic or three-dimensional marks. Additionally, the new legislation allows for the submission and registration of geographical indications within the jurisdiction.

In tandem with these legislative changes, the UAE acceded to the *Madrid Protocol* on December 28, 2021, enabling international trademark applications designating the UAE to be submitted from that date. These significant amendments to intellectual property laws and the UAE’s strengthened ties with international organizations reflect the country’s commitment to advancing its intellectual property framework, aligning it more closely with global standards.

Trademark Applications

The UAE follows the Nice Classification system for trademark registration. However, goods in Class 33 (alcoholic beverages), alcohol-related goods in Class 32, pork products in Class 29, and services related to gambling are considered contrary to public interest and cannot be registered. Multi-class applications are not currently accepted.

Types of Trademark Applications

Elements eligible for trademark registration in the UAE include words, graphics, symbols, slogans, three-dimensional signs, color combinations, sounds, and holograms.  

The types of trademarks that can be registered include:

• Trademarks
• Service marks
• Collective marks
• Certification marks
• Series marks

Registration Methods

• Single-country registration (direct application)
• Madrid international registration

Application Requirements

• Power of attorney (certified by the UAE consulate);
• Trademark sample;
• Detailed list of goods and/or services;
• Applicant’s name and address;
• Priority claim documents, if applicable.

Trademark Application Process

The registration process in the UAE consists of the following steps: Application → Examination → Publication → Approval → Certification.

• Application: While multi-class applications are not yet implemented, applicants can file for an entire class of goods or services. Goods in Class 33 (alcoholic beverages), alcohol-related goods in Class 32, and pork products in Class 29 are not eligible for registration. 
• Examination: Both formal and substantive examinations are conducted, with substantive examination typically taking around 90 days.
• Publication/Opposition: Once published, there is a 30-day opposition period during which interested parties can file objections.
• Registration: If no opposition is filed or if oppositions are resolved in favor of the applicant, the trademark proceeds to registration. Under normal circumstances, the entire process from application to registration takes approximately 3–4 months.

Trademark Maintenance

Registered trademarks in the UAE are valid for 10 years from the application date. Renewals can be filed within one year before the expiration date, with a grace period of 3 months. Each renewal extends the validity for another 10 years.

Applications for invalidation or cancellation of a trademark can generally be filed on the following grounds:

• Violation of relevant laws and regulations;
• Non-use of the trademark in the UAE for 5 consecutive years, unless due to force majeure.