Intellectual Property
The Intellectual Property Law provides for the protection and enforcement of different intellectual property rights; Patents, Utility Certificates, Industrial Designs and Drawings, Copyright, Trademarks, Trade Names and Trade Secrets. The Intellectual Property Law explains the rights enjoyed by owner of these intellectual property rights within the DIFC, what constitutes infringement, the remedies available in the event of infringement as well as the procedures for enforcement of intellectual property rights.
The Intellectual Property Law is based on international best practice standards and in compliance with the international treaties related to intellectual property as well as the UAE Federal laws in relation to intellectual property rights.
The Commissioner of Intellectual Property (the “Commissioner”) is responsible for administering the Intellectual Property Law.
This site has been designed to provide a useful point of reference and guidance, as well as assist businesses and individuals who wish to find out more about the intellectual property rights and remedies available to them under the Intellectual Property Law.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW
The Law prescribes rules and regulations regarding the protection and enforcement of Patents, Utility Certificates, Industrial Designs and Drawings, Copyright, Trademarks, Trade Names and Trade Secrets.
Read MoreINTELLECTUAL PROPERTY REGULATIONS
The Intellectual Property Regulations provide detailed procedures for infringement complaints filed with the Commissioner of Intellectual Property, including the requirements, the process of the complaint and time lines, the inspections and investigations that the IP Commissioner may carry out, and the requirements for issuing directions in respect thereof.
Read MoreWHY INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY IS IMPORTANT
Intellectual property rights, in all its forms, are valuable assets to businesses and individuals. Intellectual property rights drives innovation and provide competitive edge for its owner, through the exclusive rights it confer into its owner. With the increased role of technology in the financial services, the importance of protecting and enforcing intellectual property rights has grown and become essential for its growth and development.
DIFC as leading financial hub for Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, has acknowledged this value through the Intellectual Property Law, which aims to create a safe and secure regulatory and legal framework that is conducive to creativity and innovation within the DIFC, via the introduction of a comprehensive mechanism for the protection and enforcement of intellectual property.
For more details on what you need to know about the Intellectual Property Law and Regulations, please download Guide to the DIFC IP law from documents section below.
How to submit a complaint
An intellectual property infringement complaint is a serious issue with serious legal implications; please fully familiarize yourself with the DIFC Intellectual Property No. 4 of 2019 and consult with a legal advisor before filing a complaint.
You may submit a complaint by completing the online form along with payment of application fees, and attaching the relevant documents where applicable:
- Trademark, Patent, Design, Registration or any relevant Certificates or Documents
- Undertaking Letter Template
- Power of Attorney
How to Register as an Expert
The Commissioner of Intellectual Property may appoint expert(s) as part of investigation in an intellectual property complaint, in accordance with the Intellectual Property Regulations. Persons who would like to register as experts can apply by completing the online form, along with payment of application fees, and attaching the relevant documents where applicable. The Commissioner of Intellectual Property reviews expert applications, only once approved, expert will be recorded in the Register of Experts.
The Commissioner of Intellectual Property may reject any application that does not meet the requirements. Minimum requirements to apply to register as expert:
- Completed Application Form
- Minimum experience of 10 years in the relevant area of expertise.
- Provide Curriculum Vitae
- Provide credentials and qualifications of the expert.
- Provide references or testimonies from past experiences.
- Certificate of good conduct and behavior.
