The rapid growth of digital commerce has challenged traditional notions of trademark use and enforcement, particularly in jurisdictions where physical presence was once viewed as a key indicator of commercial activity. In a significant recent development, the Abu Dhabi Court of Cassation has reaffirmed that online-only brands enjoy full trademark protection in the UAE, even...
Challenge A well-established skincare company headquartered in Russia sought to expand its presence into the United Arab Emirates, one of the region’s fastest growing markets for beauty, wellness, and personal care products. To protect its brand identity and ensure exclusive commercial use, the company filed an application to register its trademark with the UAE Ministry...
Challenge A prominent UAE/China-based sports company approached us with urgent concerns regarding trademark infringement in the United Arab Emirates. As a well-established brand in the sports and lifestyle sector, the company had been rapidly expanding its product distribution in the region. However, as their visibility grew, they began facing increasing risks of counterfeit goods and...
In a decision reported on 24 October 2025, the Calcutta High Court held that the mark “PROTIFIX”, used in respect of a protein supplement, is deceptively like the longstanding mark “PROTINEX” and accordingly ordered that the registration for PROTIFIX be rectified, cancelled, removed and expunged from the register of trademarks. The court emphasised that an...
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...
India is a land of festivals, and its rich cultural heritage is expressed through countless products, designs, and innovations that accompany these celebrations. From the sparkling lights of Diwali crackers to intricately crafted Ganesh idols during Ganesh Chaturthi, and the vibrant powders of Holi, these festival-related creations are more than just objects they are intellectual...
India’s traditional knowledge is vast and deeply rooted in its cultural heritage. From the ancient practices of Ayurveda and Yoga to systems like Unani, Siddha, and Sowa Rigpa, this knowledge reflects centuries of communal experimentation and refinement. The question that often arises is whether such knowledge can be patented in India. The short answer is...
Geographical Indications (GIs) occupy a unique and often underappreciated space in the intellectual property (IP) landscape. Unlike patents that reward inventors or trademarks that distinguish businesses, GIs are inherently collective rights tied to communities, cultures, and geographies. They protect products that draw their uniqueness from a specific region whether it is Darjeeling Tea, Banarasi Sarees,...
The Indian Patent Office (IPO) has revoked Novartis’ patent in India for its cardiac drug Vymada on the grounds of lack of novelty and inventive step. This decision not only impacts the pharmaceutical industry but also reinforces India’s jurisprudence on the delicate balance between rewarding innovation and safeguarding public health. Legal Basis for Revocation The...
Think of the distinctive Airtel jingle. Or the iconic, red-soled shoe crafted by Christian Louboutin. Or even the familiar whiff of popcorn that greets you at a movie theatre. These are not just products or advertisements; they are experiences. In the modern marketplace, brands are no longer confined to logos, slogans, and names. Instead, they...
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