Page 422 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - MAY 2025 ( Part 2)

5/22/25, 3:33 PM Latest News
The product registration service will be fully available online through the official website of the Ministry of
Economy, which will begin accepting applications for GI registration from both within the country and abroad.

The process will adhere to approved guidelines and standards that take into account the geographical,
natural, and traditional attributes of each product. Currently, the Ministry is reviewing 25 additional products,

including 13 food items and 12 handicraft products, in preparation for their registration. By the end of this
year, the total number of products covered by the service is expected to reach six.

The registration of national products under the new GI system opens up broader export opportunities for
them. The initiative aligns with the country's efforts to promote tourism in unique destinations, achieve

resource sustainability, and build a global reputation for national products, thereby reinforcing the strength
and resilience of the national economy.
The event featured two panel discussions: the first highlighted several leading global experiences in GI

tagging national products, while the second showcased successful national models that demonstrate the
quality of GI tagged products and its positive impact on promotion, export, and national reputation. The

Ministry of Economy also honored the initiative’s partners during the event in appreciation of their efforts and
active role in the development of the system.
New system supports the country's efforts in achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals

The new GI system stands out as an effective tool that advances the country's efforts to foster both individual
and institutional innovation, while protecting intellectual property rights in the UAE in line with the nation's

broader aspirations to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In this regard, the protection of national products through GI tagging contributes to achieving Goal 8, which

focuses on ‘Decent Work and Economic Growth,’ by stimulating local production, creating sustainable job
opportunities, and increasing the economic value of products. It also supports the achievement of Goal 9

related to ‘Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure,’ as it enhances the development of value chains in both
traditional and modern industries, promotes innovation in production methods, and contributes to building a
knowledge-based and quality-driven economy.

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in its World Intellectual Property Indicators report 2024
noted that there are more than 58,600 active geographical indications worldwide as of 2023. Europe led the

way, accounting for 52.5% of registered geographical indications globally, followed by Asia with 39.5%.
Trademarks law provides comprehensive protection for GI in the UAE

The UAE’s Trademarks Law provides comprehensive protection for geographical indications, recognizing
them as a form of trademark linked to a specific geographic origin that grants the product unique

characteristics and distinctive quality. The law allows the registration of geographical indications as a legal
right, ensuring their IP ownership and preventing their misuse by others in ways that could mislead
consumers or tarnish the reputation of original products, provided they are protected in their country of origin.

The law protects registered products from imitation, counterfeiting, or any unauthorized use, including any
misleading presentation or labeling that suggests a false geographic origin, as such actions negatively impact

consumer awareness and the rights of producers. Additionally, the law prohibits the use of geographical

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