The trademark regime in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been modernised by Federal Decree-Law No. 36/2021 On Trademarks and Cabinet Decision No. 57/2022 On Executive Regulations of the Federal Decree-Law No. 36/2021 on Trademarks, expanding protectable subject matter to non-traditional signs (e.g., 3D, sound, smell, holograms), refining procedures (including multi-class filing and clearer opposition routes), and strengthening civil, criminal and border enforcement. Recent rulings, most notably Abu Dhabi Court of Cassation Case No. 74/2025 and a federal Supreme Court judgment in May 2025 on prior use, underscore the courts’ willingness to grant robust relief and to prioritise genuine prior users in appropriate circumstances. Practically, brand owners should pair early filing with evidence building, customs recordals and electronic commerce (e-commerce) monitoring, while preparing for the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) generated branding.

Primary statute

Federal Decree-Law No. 36/2021 repealed Federal Law No. 37/1992 Concerning Trademarks and governs registration, scope of rights, infringement and penalties. It expressly recognises non-traditional marks and sets out absolute or relative grounds, terms, renewals and sanctions.

Executive regulations