Page 81 - MINISTRY OF CULTURE PR REPORT - FEBRUARY 2025

She said: “In a world where ideas and knowledge are a kind of capital, protecting the rights
of creators is not just a legal duty but a strategic imperative. Intellectual property is the

backbone of a thriving creative economy that empowers people, strengthens industries, and
fosters sustainable innovation. Through this conference, we reaffirm our commitment to

building frameworks that balance accessibility with fairness, ensuring that the work of
authors, publishers, and creatives continues to enrich societies worldwide. Working together,

we can shape an ecosystem where creativity is valued and protected as a force for cultural
and economic progress.”

Leading the global dialogue:

His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri delivered a compelling speech in which
he highlighted the significant efforts of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi

in advancing the publishing sector and creative industries in the UAE. He also
acknowledged her leadership in driving international cooperation to protect and empower

creators.

He said: “The UAE’s hosting of the First International Reprographic Rights Conference
reflects our commitment and active role in fostering discussions and dialogue on both local
and global levels, providing all necessary means to support the protection of intellectual

property rights, particularly reprographic rights.” He also stressed that, under
the guidance of the UAE’s visionary leadership, the country has made significant strides in

developing an advanced legislative framework for intellectual property. Based on best
international practices, this framework includes Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2021 on

Reprographic Right and Related Rights. Through collaboration with key partners, the Ministry
of Economy has worked tirelessly to create a competitive and robust legislative environment

for authors and creative professionals, positioning the UAE as a leading global hub for
creative industries.

“Enhancing international cooperation in reprographic protection and collaborating with
relevant global institutions is essential for exchanging the latest expertise, best practices,

and trends in this field. Therefore, the UAE has proactively joined international treaties and
established fruitful partnerships to protect intellectual property rights and support the

growth of businesses and activities within creative sectors such as culture, arts, music, and
literature,” His Excellency concluded.

Furthermore, he shared impressive statistics achieved by the intellectual property sector in
the UAE by the end of 2024. Among the key figures, over 370,000 national and international

trademarks are registered in the UAE markets, and over 21,000 intellectual works have
been registered. Additionally, nearly 24,500 applications for intellectual work registration