The UAE Cabinet has issued Cabinet Resolution No. (102) of 2025, introducing significant amendments to Cabinet Resolution No. (20) of 2020 concerning the service fees of the Ministry of Economy.
These new measures, which will take effect on 15 November 2025, include several key adjustments to trademark-related service fees and procedures.

Below is a summary of the most notable changes.

1. Appeals Now Subject to Fees

The new resolution officially removes the previous exemption on appeal fees. Applicants will now be required to pay fees for:

• Appeals against trademark application rejections;

• Appeals concerning post-registration amendment decisions (previously free of charge); and

• Appeals related to opposition decisions, with the fee amount differing between applicants and opponents.

This marks an important procedural change, emphasizing the Ministry’s shift toward more structured cost recovery for appeal processing.

2. Expedited “One-Day” Examination Introduced

A new fast-track examination service has been launched, allowing applicants to request a one-day examination for an additional fee.
Further details regarding eligibility and filing procedures are expected during the upcoming Trademark Office (TMO) briefing. This service represents a major step toward faster, more flexible trademark registration in the UAE.

3. Adjustments to Renewal and Special Mark Fees

Renewal fees for certification and quality control marks have increased, particularly for renewals filed during the grace period.
Additionally, fees for these marks are now higher than for standard trademarks, reflecting their broader regulatory scope and oversight requirements.

4. Multi-Class Applications – Same Practice Continues

While multi-class applications remain possible, each class will continue to attract the standard filing fee.
Thus, even though applicants may file a single application for multiple classes, charges remain per class, consistent with current practice.

5. Other Key Modifications

• Conversion from national filing to international registration (IR) will now incur specific fees.

• Submitting statements or evidence in opposition proceedings will attract a new fee, separate from the hearing fee.

• Appeals to the Grievance Committee against cancellation decisions are now subject to a new fee.

• Renewal of trademark agency registrations will now cost AED 7,500, where renewal was previously free.

6. Preferential Fees for SMEs – Awaiting Classification Criteria

A new fee category for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) has been introduced to encourage local business participation in the IP system.
However, further clarification is expected regarding the definition of SMEs, the required documentation, and eligibility verification by the Ministry of Economy.

To qualify, companies must be registered members of the National Program for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises and Establishments.

This initiative aims to support innovation among UAE-based entrepreneurs and smaller IP owners.

7. Fee Exemptions for People of Determination

The resolution also grants full fee exemptions to people of determination (persons with disabilities), reaffirming the UAE’s commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and equal opportunity.
By removing financial barriers, this measure encourages greater participation in the intellectual property ecosystem and supports a more knowledge-driven and inclusive economy.

Next Steps

Further guidance and clarifications are expected in the upcoming joint session with the Trademark Office and the Ministry of Economy, where detailed implementation procedures will be shared.
Our team will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on how these changes impact trademark filing and maintenance strategies in the UAE.