ABU DHABI: The UAE Ministry of Economy has reported a significant increase in intellectual property (IP) registrations, reflecting the country’s commitment to fostering innovation. In the first nine months of 2024, the registration of trademarks, patents, and utility certificates rose sharply, showcasing national efforts to support research, development, and entrepreneurship.
IP registrations increased by 34.3 percent, with trademark registrations growing by 39.12 percent and patents, utility certificates, and industrial designs rising by 8 percent compared to 2023. In total, the Ministry registered 1,884 IP works, up from 1,402 last year, reaching an overall total of 20,389.
Demand for IP protections has surged, with the Ministry receiving 1,946 applications, marking a 53.23 percent increase from the previous year. IP violation reporting also grew, with 153 cases recorded, alongside a 26.67 percent increase in applications for registering importers and distributors of IP rights.
Trademark activity has been particularly robust, with 18,175 new trademarks registered as of September 2024—a 39 percent rise from 2023. The Ministry processed 24,258 trademark applications and 8,171 inquiries, bringing active trademarks in the UAE to 356,408.
The country also saw an 8 percent growth in patents, utility certificates, and industrial designs, totalling 15,051 registered by September. Patent registration applications climbed by 3.8 percent, with 3,489 applications received.
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According to Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy, this growth demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to an IP-friendly ecosystem aligned with global standards. The Ministry has prioritised advancing IP legislation and initiatives to support both industrial and creative sectors, reinforcing the UAE’s vision of economic growth driven by knowledge and innovation.
Aligned with the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision, these efforts aim to position the UAE among the world’s top 10 destinations for global talent and intellectual capital.
