How to apply for Patent in UAE?

Developing a new product or process can be a thrilling and challenging experience. It requires creativity, technical skills, and an entrepreneurial spirit. But it also offers the potential to launch a new company and create a brand-new opportunity for individuals or groups. However, protecting that innovation is crucial, and patent registration is a critical step in safeguarding the novelty and marketability of the invention.

What is Patent Registration in UAE?

Patent registration is the legal process by which an inventor secures the exclusive rights to their invention for a certain period of time. This exclusive right enables the inventor to prevent others from using, making, selling, or importing the patented invention without their permission.

Applying for a patent in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can be a complex and lengthy process, but it’s crucial if you want to protect your intellectual property rights. A patent gives you the exclusive right to manufacture, use, or sell an invention for a certain period of time. In the UAE, patents are granted by the Ministry of Economy’s Patent Office.

How to apply for a patent in UAE?

If you’re considering applying for a patent in the UAE, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.

Step 1: Conduct a Patent Search

Before you start the patent application process, it’s essential to conduct a thorough search to determine if your invention is unique and not already patented in the UAE or other countries. You can conduct a patent search through the UAE Patent Office’s online database or seek the help of a patent attorney.

Step 2: File a Patent Application

Once you have determined that your invention is unique, you can proceed with filing a patent application. The application should include a detailed description of your invention, along with any drawings or diagrams. You should also include a list of claims that specifically define the scope of your invention.

1. To file a patent in UAE, visit the Ministry of Economy’s website at moec.gov.ae
2. Click on eServices
3. Click on Register Patents and Start the Service
4. Login with your UAE pass account or create a new one
5. Start filing your patent

You can file your patent application with the UAE Patent Office in person or through an authorized agent. If you’re filing in person, you can visit the Ministry of Economy’s offices in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

Step 3: Pay the Patent Filing Fee

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), filing a new patent application requires payment of an application fee, which varies depending on whether the applicant is an individual or a company. As of 2021, the fee for new patent applications is AED 1,000 for individuals and AED 2,000 for companies.

In addition to the application fee, applicants may also request a search and first examination of their patent application. This process incurs a fee of AED 7,000 for both individuals and companies. Should the applicant require a second or third examination of their application, an additional fee of AED 5,000 will be charged for each request, regardless of whether the applicant is an individual or a company.

Once the patent application has been examined and deemed eligible for publication, the applicant may request its first publication. While no fees are required for this step, the payment process must still be completed in order to proceed.

Finally, should an applicant wish to file a grievance or objection (appeal) regarding their patent application, no fees are required for this step. However, the payment process must still be completed.

It is important to note that the fees outlined above are subject to change and should be verified with the UAE government’s official patent office at the time of filing.

In addition to the above fees, applicants should also be aware of other costs associated with patent filing, such as attorney fees and translation fees if the patent application is not submitted in Arabic.

The fee can vary depending on the type of patent you’re applying for and the complexity of your invention. You can find more information on the fees on the UAE Patent Office’s website.

Step 4: Wait for Examination

After submitting your patent application and paying the filing fee, you’ll need to wait for the UAE Patent Office to examine your application. This process can take several months or even up to a year, depending on the workload of the Patent Office.

During the examination process, the Patent Office will review your application to ensure that it meets all the necessary requirements. If they find any deficiencies, they may request additional information or ask you to make changes to your application.

Step 5: Grant of Patent

Obtaining a patent in the UAE requires paying several fees and complying with various timelines. The application fee for filing a new patent ranges from AED 2,000 to AED 12,000, depending on the type of application and the number of claims being made.

The legal examination process can take up to 7 months, and examination fees must be paid after that, which can take up to 42 months to receive results.

Finally, publication fees must be paid, and it takes about 3 months until the patent is issued. It is important for patent applicants to be aware of these fees and timelines and to plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and successful patent application process.

If your patent application is approved, you’ll receive a certificate of patent from the UAE Patent Office. The certificate will give you the exclusive right to manufacture, use, or sell your invention in the UAE for a certain period of time.

The length of the patent will depend on the type of patent you’re granted. For a standard patent, the term is 20 years from the filing date, while for a utility model patent, the term is 10 years.