How to Register a Trademark in UAE for Indian Brands. Expanding your Indian brand to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a huge step toward global recognition. However, before you launch your products or services there, one of the most critical things you must do is register your trademark. Without this, your brand identity could be at risk of misuse or imitation.
In this detailed guide by Black Swan Business Setup Service, you’ll learn exactly how to register a trademark in UAE for Indian brands, why it’s so important, and what steps you must take to secure your brand legally and effectively.
Why Trademark Registration in UAE Is Essential for Indian Brands
When you build a brand, your name, logo, slogan, or symbol becomes your identity. In a competitive market like the UAE, these brand assets need legal protection.
By registering a trademark in UAE, you gain exclusive ownership rights to your brand within all seven Emirates — Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain.
Moreover, a registered trademark prevents others from copying, counterfeiting, or misusing your identity. It also builds trust among customers and investors, which is vital when expanding internationally.
Most importantly, UAE trademark registration gives you the legal right to take action if someone tries to use your brand name without permission.
Legal Framework for Trademark Registration in UAE
Trademark registration in UAE is regulated by the UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 36 of 2021 on Trademarks. The governing body responsible for trademarks is the Ministry of Economy (MoE).
Under UAE law, trademarks can include words, logos, symbols, designs, or any combination that distinguishes goods or services.
However, some marks cannot be registered, such as:
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Generic or descriptive names
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Misleading or offensive symbols
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Marks that resemble existing trademarks
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Names that violate public morals or government emblems
Knowing these rules ensures your application will not be rejected.
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Step-by-Step Process: How to Register a Trademark in UAE for Indian Brands
Trademark registration in the UAE involves several well-defined steps. Here’s a clear, practical breakdown:
1. Conduct a Trademark Search
Before applying, it’s smart to conduct a trademark availability search through the UAE Ministry of Economy portal.
This helps you ensure that your desired brand name or logo isn’t already registered or too similar to another mark. Doing this step early can save you from rejection or costly disputes later.
2. Identify the Class of Goods or Services
Trademarks are categorized under the Nice Classification system, which includes 45 different classes.
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Classes 1–34 cover goods.
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Classes 35–45 cover services.
Choose the correct class that matches your business activities. For example, if you own a clothing brand, you’ll likely register under Class 25.
3. Prepare the Required Documents
To register a trademark in UAE, Indian companies must provide the following:
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Trademark logo or image (in color and black & white)
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Applicant’s name, address, and nationality
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Power of Attorney (notarized and legalized for Indian applicants)
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Copy of your trade license (if applicable)
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Passport copy of the owner or authorized signatory
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Description of goods/services under the class selected
Having all documents ready ensures a smooth filing process.
4. File the Trademark Application
Once the documents are ready, submit your application through the Ministry of Economy’s official e-services portal.
Foreign applicants (like Indian brands) must file through a registered UAE trademark agent or a business consultancy such as Black Swan Business Setup Service, which can handle the entire process for you.
You’ll pay the official filing fee of around AED 750 per class at this stage.
5. Application Review by the Ministry of Economy
The Ministry reviews your application to ensure it meets all legal requirements. If everything is correct, the mark moves to the publication stage.
If there are objections (e.g., similarity with existing marks), you’ll be notified, and you can respond with clarifications or arguments.
6. Publication in the Official Gazette
If approved, your trademark will be published in the UAE Official Gazette and in two Arabic newspapers.
After publication, there’s a 30-day opposition period, during which third parties can object to your trademark if they believe it infringes their rights.
7. Pay the Registration Fee
If no opposition arises, or if you win the dispute, you must pay the registration fee (AED 5,000).
The Ministry then issues your Trademark Registration Certificate, granting you exclusive legal ownership in UAE for ten years.
8. Trademark Renewal and Protection
Your trademark is valid for 10 years from the date of filing and can be renewed indefinitely for another 10 years each time.
It’s crucial to renew before expiry or within the three-month grace period after expiry (with a late fee).
Moreover, to enforce your rights, you can record your registered mark with UAE Customs or Dubai Economy, which helps block counterfeit goods.
Why Choose Black Swan Business Setup Service
At Black Swan Business Setup Service, we specialize in trademark registration in UAE for Indian brands. Our experienced team handles everything — from document preparation and filing to publication and final certification.
We also assist with UAE business setup, company licensing, and intellectual property protection. With us, you don’t just register your brand; you protect it strategically for long-term growth.
Tips for Successful Trademark Registration
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Always conduct a search before filing to avoid duplication.
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Choose a distinctive and creative mark that’s easy to identify.
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Register your logo and name separately for stronger protection.
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Keep all legal documents (Power of Attorney, trade license, etc.) ready.
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Renew your trademark before expiry to maintain continuous protection.
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Partner with a professional business setup consultancy to manage filings accurately.
Conclusion
Registering a trademark in the UAE for Indian brands is not just a legal necessity — it’s a strategic move to protect your brand identity in a growing international market. By following the right process, preparing your documents carefully, and partnering with experts like Black Swan Business Setup Service, you can secure your trademark rights smoothly and focus on expanding your brand confidently. Your brand deserves protection — and the UAE is the perfect place to make it official.
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