Intellectual Property (IP) refers to creations of the mind, such as inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, names, and images used in commerce. IP is protected by law, granting exclusive rights to the creator or owner.
Intangible assets are valuable assets that a business owns but doesn't have a physical form. They include things like intellectual property, brand recognition, customer lists, research and development, and goodwill. These assets can contribute significantly to a company's value and competitive advantage but are not tangible or physical in nature.
IP refers to legal rights that protect creations of the mind, such as inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, and symbols, names, and images used in commerce. It includes patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets.
IAs are broader and include all non-physical assets that have value but lack a physical presence. While IP is a subset of IA, IA encompasses a wider range of assets, including things like brand reputation, customer relationships, proprietary processes, and goodwill. Essentially, IP is a specific category within the broader category of IA.
Dubai Intellectual Property Hub offers comprehensive guidance on IP, including copyrights and trade secrets. We assist businesses in understanding legal frameworks, implementing protection measures, and leveraging IP assets for growth and profitability.
Dubai is committed to diversifying its economy and is strategically located as a gateway between the East and West. IP protection in Dubai is crucial for businesses looking to capitalize on new opportunities, investments, and to secure a market presence within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia (MENASA) region.
The UAE is a member of various international IP agreements, such as the Paris Convention, the Berne Convention, and the World Trade Organization’s Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). There are various agreements that are specific to each IP type. Find out more about these in their respective pages.
Applying for IP protection in Dubai means you will only be protected in the UAE. There are currently no single IP protection agreements that protect your work in multiple countries (except for copyright). If you wish to be protected in other jurisdictions you will need to apply through their offices.
To apply for IP in Dubai you must be a UAE citizen or have residence status in the UAE - if you are applying from outside the UAE, a local attorney may apply on your behalf
We have curated a list of IP attorneys that you may find in our UAE IP Attorney Register.
Registering your IP rights depends on the type of idea you are looking to register. This would determine what type of IP (or collection of IPs) you can register for. Each IP type has a different process for registration. Look through their respective pages to find out more. In general the process goes like this:
01. Learn about the IP types and prepare all the necessary documents
02. Register your IP with the correct authority
03. Maintain your IP rights, proactively enforce your rights, and commercialize to generate revenue
Navigating the world of IP can be complex. We recommend seeking assistance and guidance when it comes to applying and maintaining IP. IP attorneys have the knowledge and expertise to do various activities on your behalf.
Proactively maintain the IP rights by paying its annual fees. You are required to also update any information, this may be when the ownership is transferred or you hire a new IP attorney. Monitor the market for any potential infringements, issue cease and desist letters if you do. An important point to note is the concept of ‘commercial exploitation’. For various IP types you are required by law to use your granted IP in the market. This may be through production, distribution, importing, or licensing. Not abiding by this may lead to your IP rights being taken away from you.
