Page 371 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - MAY 2025 ( Part 2)

The Ministry also said the announcement underscores the UAE’s commitment to bolstering its
intellectual property (IP) framework and promoting its national identity on the global stage.
Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy, said the initiative is crucial to
transforming culturally significant products into valuable economic assets for local communities
and fostering economic diversification, aligning with the “We the UAE 2031” vision.

Products identified

In the initial phase, four national products have been granted GI status:

• Hatta Honey: Recognised for its distinctive quality resulting from the Hatta region’s unique
mountainous environment and traditional production methods.

• Ras Al Khaimah Ceramics: Celebrated for their long-standing tradition of craftsmanship and
their significance as a key export of the emirate

• Dabbas Dates from Al Dhafra: Distinguished by their authentic agricultural character and
established reputation within the Al Dhafra region
• Traditional Palm Frond Products: Representing the UAE’s rich artisanal heritage, these
handcrafted items are produced across various emirates

Currently, an additional 25 products, spanning food and handicrafts, are under review for potential
GI registration, with the total number of registered products expected to reach six by the end of the
year.

Apply for GI tagging
The Ministry of Economy has indicated that the online registration service for GI tagging is now
active, inviting applications from both domestic and international producers. The process will
adhere to established guidelines that consider each product's geographical, natural, and traditional
attributes.

The introduction of the GI system is also framed within the context of the UAE’s broader
sustainability goals and its alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs).

The Ministry said that protecting these national products is seen as a means to stimulate local
production, generate employment, and enhance the value chains of both traditional and modern
industries.

https://gulfnews.com/business/aviation/uae-introduces-gi-system-to-help-shoppers-buy-
authentic-local-products-1.500121728