The UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism (MOET) has issued Administrative Decision No. 2 of 2026, which introduces flexibility in the submission of certified documents required for trademark applications. This development aims to support businesses and applicants facing challenges in obtaining notarised and legalised documents within the standard deadline.
This change reflects MOET’s commitment to improving service delivery, reducing unnecessary rejections, and enhancing the efficiency of the trademark registration process in the UAE.
Background
Under UAE trademark regulations, certain filings especially those submitted through an agent require notarised and legalised documents such as a Power of Attorney (PoA). Traditionally, applicants are expected to provide these documents within a 90day period from the filing date. Failure to meet this deadline previously could lead to automatic refusal of the application without room for additional compliance.
However, applicants, particularly those based overseas, often face delays due to international notary requirements, embassy legalisation procedures, and other administrative challenges. Recognising these practical hurdles, MOET has introduced a structured extension framework to provide relief without compromising procedural integrity.
What the New Decision Means
Under Administrative Decision No. 2 of 2026, applicants who are unable to submit notarised and legalised documents within the standard 90day timeframe can now request temporary extensions instead of having their applications rejected.
For new trademark applications where a Power of Attorney is required but cannot be submitted in time, MOET will no longer automatically reject the filing after the initial 90 days. Applicants can now seek further time to comply by requesting monthly extensions.
These extensions are granted in 30day increments and can be requested multiple times, subject to MOET’s approval. Crucially, MOET has confirmed that no additional official fees will be imposed for such extension requests.
Who Can Benefit
This policy change applies to both local and international applicants who face genuine delays in obtaining certified documents, including:
- Notarised Powers of Attorney
- Legalised corporate documents required for filing
- Other certified materials where legalisation processes are timeintensive
For local UAE clients, notarisation by a UAE notary may be sufficient, and further legalisation may not always be required depending on the type of document.
How to Request an Extension
To benefit from the new extension provisions, applicants or their authorised representatives must follow a simple process:
- Verify the expiry date of the initial 90day submission period for certified documents.
- Contact the Trademark Department in writing before the deadline expires, explaining the reason for the delay and identifying which documents are pending.
- Request an additional 30day extension. This request should be submitted before the existing deadline lapses.
- Submit the notarised and legalised documents promptly once they are available to ensure continued compliance.
It is important to request extensions before deadlines expire. Retroactive requests made after the deadline may not be accepted without prior approval.
Practical Implications
This decision creates a much-needed safety net for applicants who might otherwise risk losing their filing rights due to delays outside their control. It encourages proactive planning by applicants and legal agents and reduces the administrative burden associated with otherwise rigid deadlines.
Legal representatives should ensure they track submission timelines carefully and communicate with MOET well in advance of deadlines to avoid unnecessary complications.
Business Friendly and ComplianceOriented
By allowing extensions for certified document submissions without financial penalties, MOET demonstrates a balanced approach that fosters business continuity and aligns with the UAE’s broader objectives of improving the ease of doing business.
Applicants now have greater certainty that their trademark filings will not be penalised due to delays in obtaining necessary certification, especially when such delays are caused by factors beyond their control, including international legalisation processes.
Conclusion
Administrative Decision No. 2 of 2026 represents a significant and practical enhancement to the UAE’s trademark filing system. By permitting temporary extensions for the submission of certified documents particularly Powers of Attorney MOET has introduced a flexible framework that accommodates realworld challenges while maintaining compliance and procedural integrity.
Applicants and their legal advisers are encouraged to plan submissions carefully, maintain clear communication with MOET, and request extensions in a timely manner to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted trademark registration process.
