Process of Trademark Registration in Dubai and Sharjah

Early decisions during business setup in the UAE are usually a make-or-break moment for its future. The choice for protecting the brand’s identity from competitors whose job is to surpass and undermine your company.As a resident or non-resident in the UAE with plans to open a business, your step-by-step process should be: choose a business name, complete the company paperwork, and secure a trademark.

The mark is more than a title; it’s a legal requirement to protect your visual identity — your logo, symbols, motto, or unique mark — from competitors. Only after a trademark design is complete can your business begin its formal registration in the UAE.Let’s see a thorough breakdown of what trademarks are and how to go about them in Dubai and Sharjah.

What is a Trademark ?

A trademark is a symbolic attribute unique to a business or brand that’s valuable and a distinguishable feature for that entity.In simple terms, it’s a one-of-a-kind sign that helps people recognize your business or products from others and legally represents your brand identity.

It can be in the form of a:

• word or name,
• logo or symbol,
• letter or number combination,
• specific design,
• mix of all elements.

What Documents are Required for Dubai Trademark Registration?

As a local or foreign business, to apply for one, you need to have:

• A completed application form
• A power of attorney(when applicable)
• A copy of the design (certified by the Dubai Ministry of Economy)
• Supporting documents describing its features (costs, storage, inspections)
• A written note about the characteristics
• A copy of the owner’s identity or business license

Also Read: Trademark Registration Services in Dubai

How to Register Trademarks in Dubai and Sharjah

For any company to operate in the UAE, it must have its unique features (like its name) trademarked. Once registered, the brand’s identity has protection across all seven Emirates, including Dubai and Sharjah.

Here’s a step-by-step process to register:

Step #1: Conduct a Trademark Search

Run a search to confirm your mark doesn’t conflict with or infringe on an existing one. The trademark office will conduct this search before filing, and similar or closely resembling marks may cause delays or rejections.

Step #2: Confirm Suitability

Whatever mark you file must be an exact and accurate representation of your business’s operations (goods or services rendered). Only when confirmed by the officer can you proceed to make an initial application fee.

Step #3: Application Review by the UAE Trademark Office

During this stage of review, should the Ministry of Economy notice an issue or require adjustments, you will receive a notification to resubmit.

Step #4: Official Gazette Publication

Once approved by the Ministry of Economy, it gets published in the Official Trademark Journal for the UAE. There’s a publication fee, with a payment deadline of 30 days. If there is no payment, the application automatically gets canceled.

Step #5: Registration Certificate Issued

After publication and payment of the fees, with no objections or queries from anyone, the filing moves to the final phase of registration. From then on, you will receive an official trademark registration certificate.

How Long Does a Trademark Process Take?

The average registration time for a trademark is usually 18 to 24 months. This estimated timeframe includes the period from initial filing to examination, approvals, and mandatory publication.

Once registered, under UAE laws, it’s valid for 10 years. After that, it will need a renewal for another ten-year period.