How to benefit from trademark protection before the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED)

Analysis

Owners may seek criminal prosecution through the criminal court, to which they can join a civil claim. Customs border measures are another method. Finally, there is the option of administrative action through in-market raids carried out by Department of Economic Development (“DED”) inspectors.

Administrative actions are carried out in the UAE through the DED in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi, or coordinated through the Ministry of Economy in the other Emirates. The actions are usually launched by brand owners against outlets that sell counterfeit goods.

The Dubai DED is currently the most active law enforcement agency in the UAE with respect to anti-counterfeiting actions and has its own inspectors who conduct regular market visits and undertake inspections on behalf of brand owners.