Page 89 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - MAY 2025 (Part 1)_Neat

Press Release

Ministry of Economy introduces geographical indications for
national products enhancing their competitiveness in global markets

Four national products included in the first phase of the initiative

Abu Dhabi, May 08, 2025:

The Ministry of Economy announced the launch of the geographical indications (GI) system for
national products - the first-of-its-kind federal initiative designed to safeguard local products with
unique features and characteristics that originate from specific geographical regions in the UAE.
The initiative aims to enhance the intellectual property (IP) protection framework for products
with national identity and unlock new opportunities for UAE’s industries in global markets.

The launch event was organized by the Ministry in the presence of His Excellency Lieutenant
General Dhahi Khalfan, Deputy Chief of Police in Dubai, and His Excellency Abdullah Ahmed
Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi
Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, Dubai Municipality's Food Safety Department, Ras Al
Khaimah Department of Economic Development, the General Women’s Union, and the
Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi. It was attended by over 200 participants, including senior
officials, experts, specialists, and representatives from government and private sector entities,
along with the local community and various institutions concerned with IP protection and
sustainable development in the country.

Intellectual property protection & legislative development as a national priority

The UAE, guided by its wise leadership’s vision, has adopted an ambitious vision to solidify its
position as a global hub for the new economy based on knowledge and innovation, in line with the
"We the UAE 2031" vision. The UAE has made IP protection and development of its legislation a
national priority, serving as a key enabler for a creative and sustainable economy. the launch of
the GI system reflects the country’s commitment to protecting the cultural identity of UAE
products, promoting them globally, converting them into economic assets that contribute to
developing local communities and enhancing economic diversification.

The UAE continues to reinforce its IP legislative framework to enhance the competitiveness of the
national economy in line with global best practices. A special chapter on geographical indications
has been added to the trademark law, outlining mechanisms for their registration and protection,