Complete UAE Trademark Registration Guide 2025

Your brand is only as strong as the protection behind it.

The UAE has grown into a powerful hub for trade, entrepreneurship, and global expansion. From new startups to large multinationals, the UAE is seen as a gateway to growth. Yet lasting success here does not happen by chance. It starts with strong compliance and solid legal protection.

A key step is trademark registration. Without it, your brand is exposed. Others could copy your name, logo, or identity, and your ability to respond would be limited. In 2025, the UAE process is clear and well-defined.

Now, let us walk through it step by step.

Why Trademark Registration Matters

Your brand is more than a logo. It’s your reputation, customer trust, and market identity. In the UAE, registering a trademark:

• Protects your intellectual property.
• Prevents unauthorized use by others.
• Provides legal proof of ownership.
• Builds consumer confidence.
• Adds value to your company.

Without registration, even if you’ve used a name for years, you risk losing it to someone who applies first.

Step-by-Step UAE Trademark Registration Process

1. Choosing a Compliant Brand Name

The process starts with your brand name. The UAE has strict rules about what is allowed:

• It must be unique.
• It cannot include offensive, religious, or political references.
• It should not closely resemble another registered mark.

If you ignore these rules, your application will likely be rejected. Take time to get it right.

2. Trademark Search

Next, check availability. The UAE Ministry of Economy provides an official search portal. The fee is AED 350.

This search confirms whether your chosen name or logo is already registered. Think of it as a background check for your brand. Skipping it can waste both time and money.

3. Trademark Reservation

Once your search comes back clear, reserve your trademark. This can be done online and in person through the Department of Economic Development (DED).

This step marks your claim before you file the full application.

4. Prepare the Required Documents

Before applying, gather all the necessary paperwork. You’ll need:

• A sample of your logo or design.
• A copy of your trade license.
• A copy of the applicant’s passport or Emirates ID.
• A description of the goods or services you want to protect.

Organized documentation makes the process faster.

5. File the Application

The full application is submitted online through the Ministry of Economy. Here you’ll also classify your trademark using the NICE Classification system.

This system divides trademarks into 45 categories:

• 34 for goods.
• 11 for services.

Choosing the correct class is crucial. Misclassification can cause rejection or limit your protection.

6. Pay the Fees

Trademark registration involves several fees:

• AED 350 for the search.
• AED 1,800 for the application filing (non-refundable).
• AED 1,500 for publication.
• AED 5,000 for final registration.

If you use legal consultants, additional costs apply.

7. Government Examination

The Ministry of Economy then examines your application. They verify compliance and check for similarities with existing marks.

If issues arise, they may request clarifications or adjustments. Rejections are possible, but often they can be corrected with modifications.

8. Publication in Newspapers

Approved trademark applications must be publicly announced in two local Arabic newspapers as well as in the official gazette.

The public is then given 30 days to raise objections. If no objections appear, you move forward. If objections are filed, the case is reviewed before a final decision is made.

9. Final Registration

After the objection period ends, you pay the final registration fee. Once processed, you’ll receive your Trademark Registration Certificate.

This certificate is valid for 10 years and can be renewed for another decade at a time.

Tips for a Smooth Trademark Registration

1. Pick a strong and distinctive brand name

Avoid generic or overly descriptive words. A unique name not only makes your brand stand out but also increases the chances of successful registration and long-term protection.

2. Run a comprehensive trademark search

Before filing, check existing trademarks to ensure your name or logo isn’t already taken. This step helps you avoid costly disputes and rejections down the road.

3. Prepare and maintain proper documentation

From business licenses to proof of use, keep all required documents organized and up to date. Having paperwork ready speeds up the process and reduces the chances of rejection.

4. Get expert help for classification

Trademark classification can be tricky, as products and services fall under different categories. If you’re unsure, consult a professional to make sure your brand is filed under the right class.

5. Stay on top of renewals and deadlines

A trademark is not a one-time task. One missed renewal can undo years of brand protection and open the door for competitors. Set reminders and track key dates to keep your trademark active.

Own Your Brand in the UAE with Click2MENA

Your brand is your biggest asset, and protecting it starts with trademark registration. At Click2MENA, we make the process simple, fast, and hassle-free so you can focus on growing your business while we handle the legalities.

Talk to our experts today and secure your UAE trademark with clarity.