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The United Arab Emirates has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening international partnerships in the field of intellectual property (IP) during its participation in the 66th Series of Meetings of the Assemblies of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), held in Geneva, Switzerland.

Leading the UAE delegation, His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, highlighted the country’s world-class IP protection system as a key driver of its knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy.

“The UAE has built a robust IP ecosystem to foster innovation and safeguard creative ideas. This is part of our strategic vision to lead in global competitiveness and digital transformation,” said H.E. Bin Touq.

New National Initiatives Driving Innovation

H.E. Bin Touq outlined several recent national initiatives, including:

• The Green IP initiative which accelerates patent approvals for sustainable technologies.

• A trademark registration agent accreditation program, in collaboration with the Emirates Intellectual Property Association (EIPA).

• The creation of a standardized IP valuation system to enhance financing access for SMEs and tech startups through intangible asset financing.

• The collective license management system for music rights, awarding licenses to Emirates Music Rights Association and Music Nation to regulate and grow the music ecosystem.

Additionally, the UAE has launched its first Geographical Indications (GI) system, protecting the identity and value of iconic national products such as:

• Hatta honey

• Ras Al Khaimah ceramics

• Al Dhafra Dabbas dates

• Traditional palm frond crafts from various emirates

These moves aim to preserve cultural heritage and support local economic development through innovation.

Expanding Global Agreements and Support for WIPO

H.E. Bin Touq emphasized the UAE’s commitment to joining key international treaties, including:

• The Lisbon Agreement on Appellations of Origin

• The Budapest Treaty for microbial research

• The Strasbourg Agreement on patent classification

He also stressed the need to finalize ongoing global treaties on Traditional Knowledge, Cultural Expressions, and Broadcasting Organizations.

The UAE is actively considering hosting a WIPO external office, reinforcing its role as a regional hub for innovation and intellectual property. H.E. Bin Touq also advocated for the inclusion of Arabic in the Madrid System, ensuring broader access to WIPO services for Arabic-speaking communities.

“Intellectual property is a catalyst for sustainable development. We are committed to cooperating globally to elevate creative economies and adapt to the demands of the digital age,” he stated.

IP Sector Growth in the UAE

The UAE’s national IP sector has witnessed strong year-on-year growth:

• Trademarks: Over 385,774 registered, with an 89% growth in trademark registrations in 2024.

• Copyrights: A 28.93% increase in registrations in 2024, reflecting rising public awareness.

• Patents and Utility Certificates: Applications grew 6% in 2024, with a further 19.43% increase from Jan–May 2025.

• Industrial Designs: Applications surged 70% in the first five months of 2025 vs. the same period in 2024.

These figures underscore the growing confidence of creators, innovators, and investors in the UAE’s legislative and regulatory frameworks.

Conclusion

By aligning national strategies with global frameworks and investing in culturally-aware localization to create genuine connections, the UAE continues to enhance its IP landscape, making it a model for innovation-led economies.

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