The UAE Cabinet, through Cabinet Resolution No. (102) of 2025, has approved a comprehensive update to the Ministry of Economy’s (MoE) fee schedule governing trademark services. This reform modernizes the UAE’s trademark system in line with international standards and reinforces the country’s growing focus on innovation and intellectual property protection.
The updated fees will take effect 60 days after publication in the Official Gazette, expected around mid-November 2025. Businesses, brand owners, and legal teams are encouraged to review these changes early to avoid procedural delays and unexpected costs.
Introduction of the New Fee Regime
According to the Ministry of Economy and Tourism (MoET), the new trademark fee regime is designed to enhance transparency, encourage innovation, and make the UAE more attractive for both national and international brand owners. The changes also reflect the UAE’s ongoing efforts to digitize and streamline trademark services, improving speed, accessibility, and accuracy across all filings.
This Article is a Part of Our Intellectual Property Laws Services and The Ultimate Guide to Intellectual Property Law Blogpost.
Key Highlights of the New Fee Structure
Per-Class Charging Reinforced
Trademark fees will continue to apply per class, maintaining the UAE’s principle of “one trademark – one class – one fee” as set out under Trademark Law No. (36) of 2021. This approach provides clarity in cost assessment and encourages applicants to focus on their key commercial classes or adopt a phased filing strategy for multi-class protection.
Introduction of New Service Fees
The new regime introduces fees for several services that were previously free, reflecting the Ministry’s move to formalize procedural activities and promote greater accountability.
Newly introduced fees include:
Appeals against refusal – AED 5,000
Opposition filings – AED 7,500
Adding evidence in opposition proceedings – AED 350
Agent registration and renewal – AED 7,500
These changes ensure procedural efficiency and encourage applicants to prepare strong supporting evidence for oppositions and appeals. The modest AED 350 fee for additional evidence allows applicants to strengthen their submissions with professional documentation in both English and Arabic, ensuring procedural compliance with MoE standards.
Expedited Examination Option
A key innovation under the new regime is the introduction of the “One-Day Examination” service, available for AED 2,250. This fast-tracks mechanism allows applicants to obtain examination results within a single working day, offering a substantial advantage for:
• Urgent product launches
• Trademark protection prior to exhibitions or trade shows
• Entrepreneurs seeking quick market entry
This measure significantly enhances filing efficiency and reflects the UAE’s continued commitment to building a business-friendly, innovation-driven IP environment. The Ministry is expected to issue further operational guidelines on eligibility and procedural steps for this service.
Fee Exemptions and SME Incentives
The Resolution introduces inclusive measures to support small enterprises and individuals:
• Registered SMEs under the National Program for SMEs are entitled to a 50% reduction on all trademark-related fees.
• Persons of determination are fully exempt from fees, subject to proof of eligibility.
These incentives aim to make trademark protection more accessible and affordable, especially for start-ups and innovators. Applicants should ensure they maintain valid SME registration or provide supporting documentation to benefit from the applicable reductions.
Additional Services Introduced
The updated Resolution also adds several new service categories that align with international filing systems:
• Conversion of a national trademark to an international registration under the WIPO Madrid System – AED 400
• Registration of a Geographical Indication – AED 6,500
• Examination and study of trademark claims (including monitoring and infringement review) – AED 2,250
These additions strengthen the UAE’s trademark ecosystem and demonstrate its readiness to integrate with international systems.
Comparative Table: Previous vs. New Trademark Fees
| Service | Previous Fee (AED) | New Fee (AED) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trademark Application (per class) | 750 | 750 | No change |
| Opposition Filing | Free | 7,500 | Newly introduced |
| Appeal Against Refusal | Free | 5,000 | Newly introduced |
| Adding Evidence in Opposition | Free | 350 | Newly introduced |
| Expedited Examination | Not available | 2,250 | New service introduced |
Procedural and System Updates
The Ministry has also implemented significant digital and procedural reforms. All filings, payments, and communications will now be processed exclusively through the MoE’s e-services portal, ensuring real-time updates, online payments, and electronic certificate issuance. Applicants will also be required to submit proof of use or intention to use when responding to examination notices, aligning UAE practice with international norms.
The MoE further announced plans to link its national filing system with the WIPO Madrid portal, allowing UAE-based applicants to file international applications seamlessly. This integration will reduce administrative delays and strengthen the UAE’s status as a regional IP hub.
Practical Implications for Brand Owners and IP Practitioners
Budget Revisions and Cost Planning
Applicants and legal professionals should revise their IP budgets to reflect the new fees and incorporate costs related to appeals, oppositions, and expedited services. Engagement terms with clients should be updated to reflect these official changes.
Strategic Filing Decisions
Since per-class charges remain, businesses should prioritise core classes aligned with their commercial goals or adopt a phased approach to minimize upfront costs.
Leveraging Expedited Examination
The one-day examination service offers a competitive edge for companies seeking immediate brand protection. It can be especially useful for new product launches or market entries where timing is critical.
Opposition and Appeals
With the formal introduction of fees for oppositions and appeals, applicants are encouraged to prepare thorough, well-documented filings. Legal practitioners can add significant value through evidence preparation, translation accuracy, and procedural compliance.
Eligibility for Reductions and Exemptions
SMEs should verify their registration under the National Program and maintain updated certificates to ensure eligibility for the 50% reduction. Persons of determination should attach the necessary proof of eligibility when filing for exemption.
Portfolio Review and Renewals
Businesses should review existing trademark portfolios, identify upcoming renewals, and file them before the effective date to avoid paying revised or higher fees. Renewals after expiry will attract higher costs, so timely action is essential.
Effective Date and Next Steps
The revised trademark fee structure will officially take effect 60 days after publication in the Official Gazette, expected around mid-November 2025. While the new regime introduces some additional costs, it provides a more transparent, efficient, and internationally aligned framework for IP protection in the UAE.
Businesses are encouraged to plan their filings and renewals strategically, taking advantage of the new expedited services and SME-friendly provisions. Legal practitioners should ensure their clients’ filings are compliant with the updated procedural requirements and make use of the MoE’s digital tools for faster and more accurate submissions.
The introduction of the new trademark fee regime marks a pivotal step in the UAE’s journey toward becoming a regional leader in intellectual property protection. By combining fee transparency, digital efficiency, and targeted incentives, the UAE continues to reinforce its position as a preferred jurisdiction for brand registration and IP investment.
As the changes come into effect, businesses should consult with experienced IP professionals to ensure a smooth transition, accurate filings, and full benefit from the newly introduced mechanisms, including the expedited examination and SME support programs.
