GCC Countries Implement Key Legal Reforms to Strengthen Intellectual Property Rights

Recent changes in intellectual property (IP) laws across several Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are transforming the landscape of patents, industrial designs and trademarks.

These amendments aim to streamline procedures and bolster the protection of IP rights. Below is an overview of the latest IP regulatory developments in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Qatar.

Saudi Arabia: Extended Design Protection

Saudi Arabia has made significant updates to its Patent and Industrial Design Law through Royal Decree No. (M/45), dated September 25, 2023, and effective from October 3, 2023. One of the notable changes is the extension of the design protection period from 10 years to 15 years.

This extension particularly benefits designs registered in 2013, as they now qualify for an additional 5-year protection period upon payment of the required fees.

Furthermore, the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) has modified its approach to rejected trademark applications.

Previously, applicants had the option to amend rejected trademarks within a 10-day grace period or appeal the rejection. Under the new policy, the only recourse available to applicants is to appeal the rejection decision.

United Arab Emirates: New Regulations and Patent Platform Launch

In November 2023, the UAE Cabinet issued Ministerial Decision No. 112 of 2023, which introduced revised official fees for patent applications, utility models, and industrial design applications.

These changes amend the official fees associated with Federal Law No. 11 of 2021. The introduction of new regulations and a new Patent Platform has significantly improved the patent registration system in the UAE.

For annuities, applicants for national, partial, and transferred applications (based on PCT Applications) are now required to pay any outstanding annuities within 90 days of completing the legal examination, rather than from the filing date.

Importantly, applicants must ensure all formalities are met for their application to be accepted before any annuity payments become due. This ensures that the correct fees are paid based on the benefits granted during the legal examination.

Qatar: Adoption of GCC Trademarks Law

On June 18, 2023, Qatar's Minister of Commerce and Industry issued Decree No. 56 of 2023, adopting the GCC Trademarks Law.

This decree includes a fee increase for trademark services, effective from 10 August 2023. The adjustment aims to align Qatar's trademark services with regional standards and enhance the overall efficiency and protection of trademarks.

These updates represent a significant effort by GCC countries to strengthen their intellectual property frameworks, providing better protection and efficiency for businesses and innovators. Staying informed about these evolving regulations is essential for stakeholders to navigate the IP landscape effectively.

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