UAE Trademark Fee Reforms Drive Down Costs for SMEs and Boost Brand Protection
In a major policy shift that strengthens brand protection and supports small business growth, the UAE government has overhauled its trademark fee structure under Cabinet Resolution No. 102 of 2025, making trademark registration significantly more accessible for startups and SMEs.
Key highlights of the reform include:
🔹 50% reduction in official trademark fees for members of the National SME Programme, lowering the financial barrier for local entrepreneurs and smaller enterprises to register and protect their brands.
🔹 Full fee exemption for People of Determination, reflecting broader inclusivity goals within the UAE’s IP ecosystem.
🔹 A suite of 28 updated trademark services, including expedited options such as a one-day trademark examination, enabling faster brand clearance and market entry.
🔹 New services such as conversion of a national trademark to an international registration under the Madrid System, opening easier pathways for global IP strategy.
According to official sources, these reforms form part of a broader strategy to strengthen the UAE’s position as a competitive global hub for innovation and intellectual property, while directly encouraging SMEs and startups to enter the formal trademark system with lower upfront costs.
Market impact:
Early indications show strong uptake, with trademark registrations rising sharply in 2025. This new fee regime is expected to further accelerate brand protection activity and incentivize emerging businesses to secure their intellectual assets early in their growth lifecycle.
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