Geographical Indications Law in United Arab Emirates

Geographical Indications (GIs) Law in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)

🇦🇪 Legal Framework

The UAE's protection of Geographical Indications (GIs) is integrated into its broader intellectual property (IP) legislation. While there isn't a standalone federal law dedicated exclusively to GIs, they are recognized and safeguarded under Federal Law No. 11 of 2021 on the Regulation and Protection of Industrial Property Rights. This law includes provisions that address GIs within the context of trademarks, ensuring that products with unique qualities tied to specific geographic regions receive legal protection .(CWB)

🛡️ GI Registration System

In May 2025, the UAE Ministry of Economy introduced its inaugural federal GI system aimed at protecting national products with unique characteristics linked to specific regions within the country. This initiative is part of the UAE's strategy to enhance the competitiveness of its industries in global markets .(LinkedIn, Ministry of Education)

Key Features of the GI System:

Recognition of GIs: GIs are acknowledged as a form of trademark that signifies a product's origin and its specific qualities or reputation attributable to that origin.(Ministry of Education)

Registration Process: The Ministry of Economy's Trademarks Department oversees the registration of GIs. Applicants must provide evidence of the product's unique characteristics and its connection to a specific geographic area.(World Trademark Review, CWB)

Protection Measures: Once registered, GIs are protected against misuse and unauthorized use that could mislead consumers or tarnish the product's reputation.(Ministry of Education)

🏅 First Registered GIs

The UAE has granted GI status to several national products, including:(LinkedIn)

Dabbas Dates (Al Dhafra): Known for their rich, authentic flavor.(LinkedIn)

Hatta Honey: Renowned for its distinct quality and traditional production methods.(LinkedIn)

Ras Al Khaimah Ceramics: Handmade items inspired by centuries-old traditions.

Palm Frond Handicrafts: Crafted using traditional weaving methods, reflecting the UAE’s rich craft heritage .(CWB)

Additionally, the Ministry is reviewing 25 other products, including 13 food items and 12 handicrafts, for potential GI registration .(CWB)

📋 Registration Requirements

To register a GI in the UAE, applicants must submit:

Product Name and Association: The product's name and its connection to a specific geographical area.(CWB)

Applicant's Legal Standing: Proof of the applicant's legal right to represent the product.

Product Description: Detailed information about the product's characteristics, unique features, and production methods.(CWB)

Product Images: Visual representations supporting the product description.(CWB)

Proof of Origin: Evidence establishing the product's origin and the link between its characteristics and the geographical area.

Specifications Document: A document detailing production standards, approved by a competent authority .(CWB)

💰 Fees

GI Registration: USD 2,450 (AED 9,000).(CWB)

Licensed User Application: USD 545 (AED 2,000) .(CWB)

🌍 International Considerations

The UAE is a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and is bound by the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), which includes provisions for the protection of GIs. This alignment ensures that the UAE's GI system is consistent with international standards and facilitates the protection of UAE-origin products in global markets.

📊 Summary Table

Aspect

Details

Legal Framework

Federal Law No. 11 of 2021 on the Regulation and Protection of Industrial Property Rights

GI Recognition

GIs are recognized as a form of trademark linked to specific geographic origins

Registration Authority

Ministry of Economy's Trademarks Department

Protection Measures

Legal protection against misuse and unauthorized use

First Registered GIs

Dabbas Dates, Hatta Honey, Ras Al Khaimah Ceramics, Palm Frond Handicrafts

Registration Requirements

Product name and association, applicant's legal standing, product description, images, proof of origin, specifications document

Fees

GI Registration: USD 2,450 (AED 9,000); Licensed User Application: USD 545 (AED 2,000)

International Alignment

Member of WTO and bound by TRIPS Agreement

 

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