The UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism has announced a 50% reduction in trademark service fees for members of the National SME Programme, as part of its ongoing efforts to support entrepreneurs and enhance the country’s business competitiveness.

Under the new amendments, people of determination are now fully exempted from all trademark service fees, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunity.

In addition, the Ministry has updated the fee structure for 28 trademark-related services, introducing new services and revising existing ones to ensure greater efficiency and transparency.

Among the notable updates:

• The fee for filing an infringement complaint is set at AED 2,250.

• The fee for submitting a grievance after an objection is dismissed is AED 7,500.

Trademark fees continue to apply per class — meaning that if an application includes multiple classes, fees will be charged for each one individually, even if filed under the same application.

H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, stated that this decision will strengthen the UAE’s position as a global investment hub, attract more international companies, and support SME owners and people of determination in expanding their ventures.

The National Programme for Small and Medium Enterprises and Projects plays a central role in empowering Emirati entrepreneurs by providing strategic guidance, resources, and collaboration opportunities with key stakeholders to ensure sustainable business growth.

Dr. Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini, Assistant Undersecretary for the Intellectual Property (IP) Sector, confirmed that any company registered with the National SME Programme is eligible to apply for the 50% discount.

“This initiative will boost the number of trademark registrations and strengthen our IP ecosystem,” he said.

Furthermore, the Ministry introduced seven new trademark services, including:

• Registration of a geographical indication – AED 6,500

• One-day trademark examination – AED 2,250

• Grievance against trademark cancellation – AED 5,000

• Conversion from national to international trademark – AED 400

• Trademark agent renewal (branch of foreign company) – AED 7,500

• Grievance against trademark registration refusal – AED 5,000

• Examination and study of claims – AED 2,250

The Ministry also streamlined four renewal-related services, with the following updated fees:

• Renewal of trademark protection during the final year – AED 5,750

• Renewal within six months after protection expiry – AED 6,500

• Renewal of monitoring and inspection marks during the final year – AED 8,250

• Renewal within six months after expiry – AED 9,750

These updates reflect the UAE’s ongoing commitment to creating a flexible, business-friendly IP system that encourages innovation, supports local entrepreneurs, and enhances the nation’s global competitiveness