How to Do a Trademark Search in the UAE (2025 Guide): Check Brand Availability Before You Register

Before starting up a new business or launching a product in the UAE, one of the important things to consider is conducting a trademark search in the UAE. It guarantees that your brand name, logo, or slogan is unique — and not already claimed by another party.

By searching for a UAE trademark in Dubai, you can save yourself from legal battles, prevent your filing from being rejected, and avoid brand confusion. When you verify the availability of the trademark that you are interested in before registration, it, by extension, protects your intellectual property and builds a good brand identity under the law in the UAE.

How do you go about carrying out a trademark search UAE? This 2025 guide will cover the UAE trademark search explained–which official channels are available (such as the Ministry of Economy trademark search and WIPO Global Brand Database), and everything you need to know for registration. Regardless of whether you are a startup or a multinational company, this article provides all the information you need.

What Is a Trademark in the UAE?

A trademark is any word, name, symbol, or the like used to identify a business’s goods or services. ADGM trademarks Statute In the UAE, trademarks are protected by virtue of Federal Decree-Law No. 36 of 2021 on trademarks.

Both on a domestic and international front, the law serves to defend businesses, so that your name will set you apart and others won’t be able to reproduce your name, logo, or slogan.

Common examples of trademarks include:

• Company names and brand names
• Logos and icons
• Product labels and packaging designs
• Taglines and slogans

After registration, the trademark proprietor obtains exclusivity to use that mark in the whole of the UAE.

Here’s Why You Need to Conduct a Trademark Search in the UAE Prior to Registration

The smart action to take before ever filing for a request is an essential search. Reasons for Conducting a Trademark Search UAE: The act of conducting a trademark search in UAE is beneficial for you:

• Do not duplicate: Avoid conflicts with existing registered brands.
• Time saving and cost-effective: No rejections during the Ministry’s scrutiny stage.
• Protect Your Rights in Courts: What ensures that your rights to intellectual properties are sound and protected in the UAE?
• Create a credible brand: Strengthens the trust and confidence of consumers.

Pro Tip: Always do a UAE trademark search online by searching in the Ministry of Economy and TMview, WIPO, for better coverage.

Advantages of Trademark Registration in Dubai

Protect and Expand Your Business with a Trademark Registration in Dubai. One of the smartest investments you will ever make to ensure your business develops is to register a trademark in Dubai. It’s also your name and logo — and the trust of your customers, which will be eroded.

Here are the key benefits:

Exclusive Ownership:

You retain all your legal rights to your brand name, logo, or design — no one else can copy it or use it without your approval.

Strong Legal Protection:

Trademarking keeps others from being able to use similar or the same name/symbols that might confuse your customers.

Brand Worth And Customer Trust:

Your mark is more professional and serious with a registered symbol, plus it has added value in the UAE market.

Easy Expansion:

Registration also makes your brand easier to franchise, license, or cooperate with others — all of which can help you expand quickly.

Global Protection:

Your UAE registration paves the way for international coverage under the global treaties and conventions, such as the Madrid Protocol, which assists in expanding the geo-fence of your brand in foreign lands.

Competitive Advantage:

The Dubai market is fierce, and to stand out, you need a trademark that will help in the identification of your brand.

How to Check Trademark in UAE — Step-by-Step Process

There are different yet proven methods to conduct a trademark search in UAE. They allow you to check if a brand name is registered in UAE. Also, if a logo or design is already registered, here are some methods for how to check trademark in UAE.

Step 1: Navigate to the Ministry of Economy, UAE Official Website

The MoE is the principal governing body of trademarks in the UAE. Here’s how to use the trademark inquiry Ministry of Economy UAE tool:

• Go to the UAE Official Website
• Click on “Intellectual Property” and under that head, click Trademark Inquiry.
• Now type the English or Arabic name you want for the brand.
• Click “Search” to see identical or similar trademarks.
• If you find no conflicts in your search, chances are your brand is available for registration.

Step 2: Use the WIPO Global Brand Database UAE Section 

There is an international tool called the WIPO Global Brand Database, which will consist of information related to the UAE. It enables you to search for whether the same/similar marks are registered elsewhere in the world, and you will if your business is also global.

How to use it:

• Visit the website
• Choose the United Arab Emirates in the country filter.
• Enter your proposed trademark.

This will help protect your brand from infringement of international rights.

Step 3: Search Using the TMview UAE Search Tool

TMview, the international database -language- used by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO). It allows access to trademarks registered in the UAE and partner states.

Steps:

• Go to the website.
• Enter your brand name.
• Filter results by “United Arab Emirates.”
• Look through details like owner name, application number, and registration date.

This is an extra step of double-checking before you continue with registering a trademark in UAE.

Step 4: Get In Touch With Trademark Agents or Legal Professionals

If you are unsure how to read the search results or don’t know whether something is a conflict, it makes sense to engage an experienced trademark consultant or IP lawyer in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Experts can:

• Analyze similar marks in depth.
• Assess the risk of rejection.
• Assist you with the submission of the trademark application in a proper manner.

They also take care of the objections, renewals, and disputes related to intellectual property rights in UAE law.

UAE Trademark Registration Process (2025 Updated)

Once done with your trademark search in the UAE and have sure that you can have the brand name for registration, go to the Ministry of Economy website to register it. It is a relatively easy process and can be done completely online.

Here’s how you can register your trademark:

1. Attach the required documents:

• Your logo or trademark design
• A copy of the operating trade license
• Power of attorney (Should someone else be applying on your behalf)
• A copy of the passport of an applicant

2. Make payment:  Finalize your payment for your official package using the online portal.
3. Waiting for review: Your application is being reviewed by the Ministry to ensure all of it is complete.
4. Period of publication: The mark will be published in the gazette for a period of 30 days after approval to allow for any opposition.
5. Final registration: Once no objections are lodged, you will thereafter receive a UAE trademark registration certificate.
6. Duration of Your UAE Trademark Registration Process: Your trademark is protected in the UAE and the GCC for 10 years from the date of its initial registration, with the possibility to renew it every 10 years.

International Trademark Protection via Madrid Protocol

The UAE is a member of the Madrid Protocol; therefore, you will have this coverage in 120 countries with just a single application for protecting your registered trademark.

If you expect to grow your business setup in Dubai outside the UAE, the cheapest and fastest way for increased international coverage is through applying via the Ministry of Economy with a Madrid Protocol extension.

This protection is therefore global, helping you to keep your brand safe in vital markets around the world.

Costs of Trademark Search and Registration in the UAE

When applying for a trademark, you should be aware of registration fees. Knowing everything about trademark search in the UAE and registration fees enables you to plan more effectively and prevents any surprises.

Trademark Search:

You can conduct a free trademark search on the Ministry of Economy (MoE) site. This part allows you to see if your brand name or what you want your logo to be is already taken before spending money on registration.

Official Filing Fee:

The government will charge you approx. AED 750 or more when filing a trademark application via the official portal.

Publication and Registration Fee:

Once your trademark is approved, you will need to pay approx. AED 750 – 1,500 for publication in the official gazette and a final registration certificate.

Professional Service Fees:

A case in which the applicant should have had a difficult time must be more profitable for the lawyer than an easy one, or why hire out?” is something that makes sense to many of us!

Pro Tip: Carrying out an early UAE trademark search online on the web can save you thousands of dirhams down the line. Not only do you circumvent declined applications and disputes down the track, but your business can continue to process more new applications cheaper and faster.

Trademark Renewal Process in Dubai

Trademarks in Dubai are typically valid for 10 years; they need to be renewed to remain protected.

Renewal steps:

• Monitor expiry date: Keep an eye on your trademark expiration date.

• Online Application: Place a renewal request via the UAE Ministry of Economy website.

• Fees: A Renewal fee will cost approx. AED 6,000–8,000.

• Publish: Renewal of the trademark is registered in the UAE Gazette and two newspapers.

• Get a Certificate: The new certificate gives 10 more years of protection.

Note: Failure to renew on time could result in cancellation. Renewals can be an efficient process, in which a lot of companies enlist the help of Trademark Registration Consultants in Dubai.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Trademark Search

Even slight errors when undertaking a trademark search in UAE can be the basis for rejection or delay. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind:

Skipping the search step:

A majority of the applicants proceed to registration without confirming a spot. This may result in conflicts or that brand being deemed not to exist.

Searching in English only:

Always search in English and Arabic because trademarks are registered in both languages here in the UAE. Tricky then to get a set of Arabic alphabet missed now could have disastrous consequences later..

Not checking similar names:

Despite the spelling being a little different, this could be ripe for duplication. Before you apply, look for similar or confusingly close names or logos. Also, check if a brand name is registered in UAE.

Ignoring global databases:

If you expect to expand your business setup in Dubai internationally, search databases like WIPO Global Brand Database or TMview to confirm that no one else is using your mark abroad.

Relying on unofficial websites:

It is recommended to rely only on official sources such as the portals of the Ministry of Economy, WIPO, or TMview. Unofficial sites could display incomplete or outdated information.

Pro Tip:

Always rely on the official databases such as MOE, WIPO, and TMview in order to obtain precise information regarding trademarks.

Benefits of Doing a UAE Trademark Search

Because searching for trademarks in the UAE isn’t just about whether your name is available — it’s much more serious when you have to spend a bunch of money changing your marketing materials, etc. Before you invest time and money in your brand, a reliable search backs up your confidence (and can help you sleep better).

Here are the key benefits:

Legal assurance before investment:

You can ensure that your brand is unique and not already taken, which could save you a lot of legal grief and money down the road.

Preventing brand conflicts:

Obtaining a search is critical since it will allow you to identify whether anyone has trademark rights that would be similar to or enforceable against your brand.

Protecting your intellectual property in the UAE:

Knowing that the mark is yours to own and litigate against copying serves your defensible trademark as a foundation to brand trust and overall reputation.

Ensuring the Ministry of Economy UAE trademark registration approval proceeds quickly:

In the absence of any conflicts on your targeted trademark, the Ministry of Economy will likely provide quicker approval.

Brand trust enhancement:  

Having a registered trademark will not only allow you to diversify your trade professionally but will also allow you to credibly establish trust with clients, business partners, and investors.

Completing a trademark search in the UAE is the first step in establishing and expanding your brand for the years ahead.

Trademark Search Tools and Databases (2025 List)

Here’s a quick comparison of official and global tools you can use:

Always double-check results across at least two databases for maximum accuracy.

UAE’s Commitment to Trademark and Intellectual Property Protection

As the UAE develops its intellectual property (IP) laws, the protection of trademarks has become increasingly important. The country respects robust global standards so that your rights are always secure within the country and around the world.

The UAE is a signatory and ratifying member of international agreements, including:

• Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property: Covers trademarks and patents in all member states.
• TRIPS agreement (Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights in UAE) : Established equitable and uniform IP standards worldwide.
• Being part of WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization) connects us to the trademark and patent networks worldwide.  

The UAE recognizes the legal trademark rights validity based on those global standards.  

Creating and sustaining the UAE business credibility and brand confidence is a landmark.  

Successfully registering a trademark in the UAE?  

• You should pick a brand name that’s distinctive and original.
• Avoid generic or descriptive words.
• Do a complete online search for the UAE trademark.
• If you make this point, they should file early to avoid brandjacking.
• Renew your registration every 10 years.

Taking these measures safeguards your trademark in terms of law and commerce.

Why Work with Trademark Business Setup Consultants in Dubai

At first glance, getting a trademark registered in the UAE may seem easy; however, there are many legal steps and technical details involved. Professional trademark consultants in the UAE come into the limelight for obvious reasons, as this paces the journey easily and faster.

Here’s why it’s worth it:

Expert guidance: Consultants and professionals are experts on UAE Trademark laws, requirements of the Ministry of Economy, or WIPO systems. Business setup experts in Dubai ensure that your application is complete and error-free.

Accurate trademark search: The authorities turn to reliable databases such as those available from the Ministry of Economy, TMview, and WIPO Global Brand Database to ensure that a name is not already in use (as well as Arabic equivalents or similar marks).

Faster approval: Professionals manage paperwork, fees, and follow-ups so you don’t experience delays or turndowns.

Legal protection: Consultants make sure your trademark complies with UAE laws. If it does, the value of that documentation becomes more credible when making a claim or fighting off potential copycats.

End-to-end support: Business setup experts in Dubai handle everything, from trademark search and filing to renewal and monitoring — freeing you up to run your business.

The most effective way to protect your brand, save time, and make sure the Ministry of Economy UAE trademark registration is successful the first time is by working with a reputable trademark consultant in the UAE.

FAQs – Trademark Search in UAE

Q1: How do I know if my trademark is registered in the UAE?

There is an easy way to find out by checking the trademark inquiry Ministry of Economy, UAE, or with a worldwide search in WIPO and TMview.

Q2: Is trademark search in the UAE free?

Yes, the UAE Ministry of Economy trademark search is absolutely free.

Q3: Can foreign companies trademark in the UAE?

Yes, both homegrown as well as International companies can have their trademarks registered through the MoE.

Q4: How much time does it take to register a trademark in UAE?

The procedure normally lasts from 4 to 6 months, depending on objections or requests for clarification.

Q5: What if I don’t do a trademark search?

Failure to search could lead to rejection of the application or lack of validity if a patent is granted.

Final Thoughts: Secure Your Brand Identity Today

In the context of UAE trademark registration, conducting a trademark search is more than a legal formality. Its trademark search is the cornerstone of the protection of your brand and its subsequent growth. 

In the context of the UAE, as a result of the UAE’s digital transformation and the UAE’s hyper-efficient ecosystem, trademark registrations, searches, and brand checks will be faster and simpler than ever in 2025. You will also have the option to check, register, and defend your brand against trademark pirates.  

For a seamless experience, most individuals advise engaging with a trademark consultant in Dubai who, based on the UAE intellectual property law, will do all the work for you, like search, registration, and everything else in between.  

The sooner you do trademark registration, trademark search, and brand registration, the more you strengthen the business brand and mitigate the risk of hostile takeovers, brand disputes, and brand invasions.