Trademark registration in the UAE is important for businesses that want to protect their brand identity from unauthorized use of their name, logo, or slogan. Federal Law No. 36 of 2021 on Trademarks now allows multi-class trademark applications; hence, the UAE has made it more convenient and affordable for businesses to secure protection across various product and service categories.
Therefore, it is essential for you to know how to file for a multi-class trademark application in UAE, whether launching your brand or expanding your product services. This can help you protect your intellectual property and meet local legal requirements.
A multi-class trademark application is one that allows the applicant to register the trademark in a single filing under multiple classes of goods and services. By consolidating applications for various classes into one application, you can save time, effort, and money, instead of filing a separate application for each class.
This is most practical for businesses that operate in several different areas. For example, if your business sells clothing and also offers retail services, you could register your trademark in one application under Class 25 (clothing) and Class 35 (retail services).
Key benefits:
The updated trademark law of the UAE effective January 2022 permits the filing of multi-class applications. Thus bringing the UAE in line with international best practices and the Nice Classification system which classifies trademarks into 45 classes: 34 for goods and 11 for services.
To begin with, ascertain the relevant classes for your business. The UAE uses the Nice Classification, which is an international classification. Each class refers to a particular category of goods or services.
For example,
Choosing the right classes ensures proper protection of your trademark in the respective fields and prevents potential disputes in the future.
The UAE Ministry of Economy allows you to search for available trademarks before submitting your application through their system. The search function enables you to verify whether your preferred trademark exists in the chosen classes.
A trademark agent who specializes in this field can help you execute this step to prevent possible trademark office objections or application rejections.
The application process for multiple trademark classes requires the following documents:
The initial submission of a simple signed Power of Attorney document is acceptable but you must provide the legalized version within thirty days.
You can submit your application through the trademark portal of the UAE Ministry of Economy. You should:
The number of classes determines the total fees that need to be paid. The multi-class filing system simplifies administrative work but each class requires its own separate payment. The Ministry will determine your total payment amount based on your chosen classes.
The Ministry of Economy will review your application after you submit it. The Ministry will publish your trademark in the Official Gazette and two local newspapers after it approves your application.
The official period for third parties to challenge your trademark application extends to thirty days. Your trademark will proceed to registration after the objection period ends and you pay the final registration fees.
After the objection period and upon complete payment of final registration fees, you will receive your Trademark Registration Certificate-conferring protection for all selected classes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Engaging the services of a trademark professional would help you in avoiding these errors and allow for a smooth registration process.
At Farahat & Co., our trademark experts specialize in UAE trademark registration, including multi-class filings, legal documentation, and brand protection strategies. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, we guide you through every step-from class selection to final registration.
With us, your application will comply with UAE trademark law and thus, you will avoid costly errors. We also offer additional services including trademark renewals, oppositions, and enforcement actions.
Ready to protect your brand under different sectors? Contact Farahat & Co. now for expert trademark registration services in the UAE.