Step-by-Step Guide to Trademark Registration in UAE (2026)

This guide walks through the UAE trademark registration process in the order it actually happens, with the decision you make at each step. It is written for business owners doing it for the first time. If you want us to do it for you, see trademark registration in the UAE.

Step 1 – Decide what to register

Register the brand exactly as customers see it. Options:

• Word mark (the name in plain text) – protects the name in any font or colour. Usually the first filing.
• Logo / device mark – protects the specific artwork. File if the logo is distinctive on its own.
• Combined mark – name plus logo together. Cheaper than two filings but narrower protection.
• Arabic version – if you trade in Arabic, consider a separate filing of the Arabic transliteration.

Step 2 – Choose the class(es)

The UAE uses the Nice Classification (13th edition from 27 January 2026). One application per class. Pick the class of what you actually sell now, plus the class of what you will sell within 1–2 years. All 45 classes explained →

Step 3 – Search the register

Search the MoET database in Arabic and English for identical and similar marks in your classes, including pending applications. The UAE is first-to-file, so a pending application beats you even if you have used the brand longer. How to search →

Step 4 – Prepare the documents

Logo file or word mark, goods/services list in both languages, trade licence (companies) or passport + Emirates ID (individuals), legalised power of attorney if using an agent. Full checklist →

Step 5 – File online and pay AED 750

On the MoET portal (UAE Pass login) open Register Trademark, complete the form, upload files, pay. Add the AED 2,250 one-day examination if speed matters. Note the application number – it is your priority date.

Step 6 – Examination (1–3 months)

MoET checks absolute grounds (descriptiveness, public order, emblems) and conflicts with earlier marks. Possible outcomes: accepted, accepted with a disclaimer or condition, or refused. A refusal can be appealed to the Grievance Committee (AED 5,000) within the legal deadline.

Step 7 – Publication and opposition (AED 750, 30 days)

Pay the publication fee within 30 days of acceptance. The mark appears in the next Trademark Bulletin (issued twice a month). Anyone may oppose within 30 days of the bulletin date. If opposed, both sides file submissions and MoET decides. About the Bulletin →

Step 8 – Final registration (AED 5,000) and certificate

Within 30 days after the opposition period, pay the final fee. The electronic certificate is issued within about a month and downloaded from your portal workspace. Protection runs 10 years from the filing date.

After registration

• Diarise renewal for year 10 (renewal guide).
• Use the mark – five years of non-use exposes it to cancellation.
• Record it with UAE Customs if you import goods.
• Monitor the Bulletin for similar filings.
• Extend abroad via the Madrid Protocol.

Timeline and cost summary

Step	Time	Government fee
1–4 Preparation	1–5 days (2–4 weeks for foreign POA)	–
5 Filing	Same day	AED 750
6 Examination	1–3 months (1 day expedited)	– / AED 2,250
7 Publication + opposition	~6 weeks	AED 750
8 Registration	~30 days	AED 5,000
Total	4–6 months	AED 6,500

Costs in detail: what it costs to register a trademark in the UAE. Questions on your case? Contact us.