Comprehensive Guide to Securing Patent Protection in the UAE
Step 1: Determine Patent Eligibility
Before initiating the process, confirm that your invention qualifies for patent protection. Under UAE patent law, a patentable invention must meet the following conditions:
- Novelty – The invention must be original and not previously disclosed.
- Industrial Applicability – It must have practical utility in any industry.
- Inventive Step – The idea must not be obvious to others in the same technical field.
Certain categories are excluded from patent protection in the UAE:
- Discoveries of natural phenomena, animals, or plants (except for microbiological inventions).
- Surgical and medical treatment methods.
- Mathematical methods, business strategies, and software as such.
- Inventions deemed harmful to public health, safety, or moral standards.
If you’re unsure about eligibility, MIPPS can conduct a comprehensive assessment to evaluate your invention’s qualification before proceeding.
Step 2: Choose Between National or International Filing
Applicants have two main pathways to file a patent:
- UAE National Filing – Direct submission through the UAE Ministry of Economy. Recommended for those seeking protection within the UAE only.
- PCT (Patent Cooperation Treaty) Filing – A unified international application enabling you to seek protection in multiple countries. The UAE is a member state of the PCT.
At MIPPS, we help you select the appropriate filing route based on your market strategy and jurisdictional priorities.
Step 3: Prepare and Compile Supporting Documents
Thorough documentation is critical for a successful application. You will need to prepare the following:
- Patent specification in Arabic and English detailing the invention.
- Abstract providing a brief summary of the invention.
- Claims clearly defining the legal scope of protection.
- Technical drawings or diagrams (if applicable).
- Power of Attorney (if filing through an agent).
- Commercial license or incorporation certificate (for companies).
- Assignment deed, if the applicant is different from the inventor.
- Priority documents, if claiming earlier filing under international rules.
MIPPS ensures all documents are correctly formatted, translated, and legally compliant.
Step 4: Professional Filing Through MIPPS
Our legal and technical experts at MIPPS manage the filing process on your behalf—from preparing the documentation to submitting it to the Ministry of Economy. We eliminate errors and streamline your application to improve approval chances and reduce processing time.
Step 5: Settle Government Fees
After submission, the required government fees must be paid. The fee amount depends on the type and complexity of the invention. MIPPS will provide a transparent cost estimate and handle the payment process efficiently to prevent delays.
Step 6: Undergo Patent Examination
The patent application will undergo a two-stage review by the authorities:
- Formal Examination – Verification of document completeness and procedural compliance.
- Substantive Examination – Evaluation of the invention’s novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability.
Applicants may receive examiner reports requiring amendments or clarifications. MIPPS will communicate with the authorities and provide expert responses to any objections or technical queries.
Note: Accelerated examination is available upon request for urgent filings.
Step 7: Publication in the Official Gazette
Once the application passes all examination stages, it is published in the UAE’s Official Gazette. This marks a six-month window during which third parties may submit oppositions.
If any objections are filed, MIPPS will advise and assist you in defending your application through legal argumentation or revised claim submissions.
Step 8: Grant of Patent and Issuance of Certificate
If no opposition is received—or after successful resolution—the UAE Ministry of Economy will grant the patent. You will receive an official certificate confirming your exclusive rights.
The patent remains valid for 20 years from the date of filing, provided it is renewed annually.
Step 9: Maintain and Enforce Your Patent Rights
To retain protection, the following actions are required:
- Annual renewals must be completed on time.
- Active enforcement is necessary in case of infringement. Patent holders may pursue legal action against unauthorized use, manufacturing, or sale.
MIPPS offers comprehensive post-grant services, including renewals, monitoring, and litigation support.
Why Patent Registration in the UAE Matters
Securing a patent provides both legal and commercial advantages:
- Exclusive rights to manufacture, market, or license the invention.
- Enhanced credibility and brand reputation in local and international markets.
- Potential to monetize your IP through licensing or sale.
- Stronger attractiveness to investors and strategic partners.
Key Recommendations for Applicants
- Finalize your invention before submission—no changes can be made afterward.
- Draft clear, specific claims to avoid ambiguity in enforcement.
- File early—patent rights are awarded to the first to submit an eligible application.
- Engage with professionals—working with MIPPS ensures legal accuracy and faster outcomes.
About Mithaq Intellectual Property & Patent Services (MIPPS)
MIPPS is a licensed and accredited intellectual property firm offering specialized services in patents, trademarks, copyrights, and IP strategy across the UAE and GCC region. We are committed to protecting innovation by providing fast, compliant, and cost-effective solutions tailored to individuals, startups, and enterprises.
Secure your invention before someone else does.
📞 Contact MIPPS today to begin your patent journey with confidence.