Abu Dhabi: The Ministry of Economy has announced the introduction of a geographical indications (GI) system for national products, marking a significant federal initiative to safeguard UAE products that boast unique features originating from specific regions within the country. This initiative aims to bolster the intellectual property protection framework for products with a national identity, thereby opening up new global market opportunities for UAE industries.
According to Emirates News Agency, the launch event was organized by the Ministry and was attended by prominent figures such as Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan, Deputy Chief of Police in Dubai, and Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Economy. The event was held in collaboration with various entities including the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, Dubai Municipality’s Food Safety Department, and the Ras Al Khaimah Department of Economic Development. The event drew over 200 participants comprising senior officia
ls, experts, and representatives from the government, private sector, and local communities.
The UAE is committed to establishing itself as a global hub for a new economy based on knowledge and innovation, aligned with the “We the UAE 2031” vision. The nation prioritizes the protection of intellectual property as a core enabler for a creative and sustainable economy. The launch of the GI system underscores the UAE’s dedication to protecting the cultural identity of its products, promoting them globally, and converting them into economic assets that contribute to local community development and economic diversification.
The GI system strengthens the UAE’s IP legislative framework, enhancing product competitiveness locally and internationally. A chapter on geographical indications has been added to the trademark law, detailing registration and protection mechanisms for these products. This initiative is a milestone in offering comprehensive protection for trademarks related to geographic environments and nati
onal products carrying cultural identities.
The Ministry of Economy has developed this initiative collaboratively with specialized national entities, ensuring flexibility in implementation and involving local communities in the development process. The Ministry plans to expand the scope of GI registrations to include more artisanal and food products, thus increasing their market value. The first phase of GI tagging includes products such as Hatta honey, Ras Al Khaimah ceramics, Dabbas dates from Al Dhafra, and traditional palm frond products. Efforts are underway to register these products within the new system framework.
The product registration service will be available online through the Ministry’s official website, accepting applications domestically and internationally. The Ministry is currently reviewing additional products for registration, aiming to cover six products by year-end. This initiative aligns with national efforts to promote tourism, achieve resource sustainability, and build a global rep
utation for UAE products, reinforcing the national economy’s strength.
The event included panel discussions highlighting global and national GI tagging experiences, showcasing the quality and impact of GI-tagged products on promotion and export. The Ministry also honored its initiative partners for their contributions to system development.
The new GI system supports UAE’s efforts to foster innovation and protect IP rights, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. It contributes to Goal 8, ‘Decent Work and Economic Growth,’ by stimulating local production and creating jobs, and Goal 9, ‘Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure,’ by enhancing value chains and promoting innovation.
The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) reports that there are over 58,600 active geographical indications worldwide. The UAE’s Trademarks Law offers comprehensive protection for geographical indications, recognizing them as a trademark linked to geographic origin and ensuring their IP ownership
.
GI tagging supports entrepreneurs and SMEs by providing economic opportunities and distinguishing their products in markets, contributing to national economic diversification and sustainability.