The UAE Trademark System: A Guide for Saudi Investors

The UAE is a massive market for expanding Saudi companies. But its trademark system differs in several details from the Saudi one — most consequential: subgroup classification, language, and the role of local agents.

The Competent Authority

UAE Ministry of Economy, Trademark Department. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, with branches in Dubai.

Fully electronic platform (UAE Trademarks Office Portal).

Procedure and Timelines

Application filing: 1–2 weeks for document preparation.

Substantive examination: 3–5 months.

Gazette publication: 30 days (opposition period).

Issuance: 4–6 weeks after opposition window closes.

Total: 6–9 months, ~30% faster than Saudi Arabia.

Fees (2026)

Filing fee: AED 6,700 (~SAR 6,700) per class.

Publication and issuance: AED 5,000 (~SAR 5,000).

Total government fees: ~AED 11,700 per class. ~60% higher than Saudi Arabia.

Agent fees: AED 4,000–8,000 additional.

Special Requirements

The application must be filed through a licensed UAE IP agent. Saudi companies cannot file directly.

Official language: Arabic. Arabic translation of an English mark is required.

If the mark contains an Arabic phrase with meaning, a certified translation is required.

Protection Duration

Protection lasts 10 years from filing, renewable indefinitely every 10 years.

Late renewal grace period: 3 months with extra fees.

After the grace period, the mark lapses and becomes available for new registrations.

Important Differences From Saudi Arabia

UAE requires a local agent. Saudi Arabia allows direct filing.

UAE is faster in examination. Saudi Arabia is cheaper in fees.

UAE publishes marks in the gazette for only 30 days. Saudi Arabia is 60 days.

Both are Madrid Protocol members, but direct registration in each is essential for the actual market.

Strategy for Saudi Companies

If your UAE expansion is within 12 months, start registration now. The Dubai name race is fierce.

If you are planning the UAE market long-term, register in core + supporting classes (35 for activities, 41 for electronics if applicable).

At Rights we work with partners in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to manage UAE files for our clients.

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