Legal Framework
Geographical Indications are an important category of intellectual property rights. In the UAE, rather than establishing a separate Geographical Indications registry system, as seen in jurisdictions such as the European Union or India, the UAE integrates Geographical Indications protection into its trademark system. These rights are regulated under Federal Decree-Law No. 36 of 2021 on Trademarks.
This law provides comprehensive protection for Geographical Indications, recognising them as a form of trademark linked to a specific geographical origin that grants the product unique characteristics and distinctive quality. The law allows the registration of Geographical Indications as a legal right, ensuring protection of intellectual property ownership and preventing misuse by others in ways that could mislead consumers or tarnish the reputation of original products, provided such products are protected in their country of origin.
Under the said law, a Geographical Indication is defined as “any indication that identifies goods as originating from a particular territory of a country that is a member of the World Trade Organization, or in a region, location, or place of that territory, where a specific quality, reputation, or other characteristic of the goods is essentially attributable to that geographical origin”.
This definition aligns closely with international standards, particularly those set out in the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), to which the UAE is a signatory.
Registration and Enforcement
The product registration service is available online through the official website of the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, which has begun accepting applications for GI registration from both within the country and abroad. The process adheres to approved guidelines and standards that take into account the geographical, natural, and traditional attributes of each product.
In 2025, the UAE Government initiated the registration of Geographical Indications, focusing on protecting and promoting locally produced goods such as dates, honey, ceramics, and handicrafts of UAE origin. The first four national products granted Geographical Indications status in the UAE are listed below:
- Dabbas Dates – Al Dhafra region of the UAE – recognised for their rich, authentic flavour.
- Hatta Honey – known for its distinctive quality and traditional production methods originating from Hatta, an inland exclave of the Emirate of Dubai located in the Hajar Mountains.
- Ras Al Khaimah Ceramics – handmade products inspired by centuries-old traditions originating from the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.
- Palm Frond Handicrafts – produced using traditional weaving methods as part of the UAE’s rich craft heritage.
Further, enforcement of Geographical Indications rights is carried out through administrative and judicial mechanisms. Courts in the UAE may adjudicate disputes involving infringement, unfair competition, or consumer deception relating to Geographical Indications.
The UAE Trademarks Law provides embedded protection for Geographical Indications primarily by preventing their misuse or unauthorised registration as trademarks. Specifically, the law prohibits the registration of marks that mislead the public as to the geographical origin of goods. This includes marks that falsely suggest that a product originates from a certain region known for specific qualities.
For example, a company cannot register a trademark incorporating a well-known geographical name if the goods do not originate from that location and do not possess the qualities associated with it. This helps prevent consumer deception and preserves the integrity of established geographical reputations.
Additionally, the law protects Geographical Indications against acts of unfair competition. Unauthorised use of a Geographical Indication that misleads consumers or exploits the reputation of the original product may be challenged under both trademark law and broader commercial regulations.
Areas for Continued Development
Overall, the UAE is well-positioned to expand its Geographical Indications regime, both domestically and internationally. As a global trade hub, the country imports and exports a wide range of goods, many of which are associated with geographical origins.
While the UAE has made progress in aligning with international frameworks, including the World Trade Organization and its obligations under the TRIPS Agreement, public awareness among local producers, consumers, and businesses regarding the concept and significance of Geographical Indications remains limited. This may result in fewer registrations of UAE-origin products that could otherwise benefit from Geographical Indications protection.
In terms of enforcement, although legal provisions exist, monitoring the misuse of geographical names, particularly in a globalised and digital marketplace, may prove challenging. Imported goods or locally sold products may falsely suggest an association with particular regional origins, thereby diluting authenticity.
Conclusion
The Geographical Indications regime in the UAE, as embedded within its trademark law, provides a functional and evolving framework for protecting origin-based products. Although the UAE does not yet have a standalone Geographical Indications framework, the existing legal provisions offer meaningful safeguards against misuse and consumer deception.
As global trade increasingly emphasises authenticity and regional identity, the UAE Government has taken proactive initiatives towards the protection of Geographical Indications. Accordingly, the UAE’s Geographical Indications regime is poised to grow in importance, paving the way for stronger protection and greater recognition of geographically distinctive products.
For further information on Geographical Indications protection, trademark registration, and intellectual property matters in the UAE, please feel free to contact Rajiv Suri at r.suri@alsuwaidi.ae.