01: What is the geographical coverage of protection for design registration in UAE?
A UAE design registration provides protection in all seven emirates, namely Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah, Ras-Al-Khaimah, Umm-Al-Quwain, and Ajman.
02: Are design application examined by the UAE Patent Office?
The UAE Patent Office conducts formal examination of design applications. However, no substantive examination is conducted. If the application meets the formal requirements (such as timely payment of annuities and submission of documents), an acceptance notification is issued. It's important to note that worldwide novelty is required as per the law.
03: Is it possible to submit the legal documents at a later stage?
Supporting documents can be submitted either with the application at the time of filing or within a grace period of 90 days from the filing date.
04: What are the legalization requirements?
The power of attorney, deed of assignment, and certificate of incorporation documents must be notarized by a notary public; legalization of such documents is no longer required by the Patnet Office.
05: Is it required to legalize the priority document?
No, it is not required to legalize the priority document. A certified copy of the priority document is sufficient for applications filed claiming foreign priority.
06: What is the annuity due date for design applications?
Annuities are due on the anniversary of the national filing date. Payment of annuities can be made prior to the due date or within the next three months following the due date.
07: Should annuities be paid for pending applications?
Yes, annuities should be paid timely throughout the term of the design in UAE, starting from the next year of the filing date until the expiry of the protection period.
08: Does the Patent Office send notifications for due/lapsed annuities?
No, it is the client's responsibility to monitor due dates for annuities.
09: Can convention priority be claimed?
Yes, convention priority can be claimed within 6 months from the date of first filing.
10: What is the term of protection of a design and from which date is it calculated?
The term of protection for a design is ten (10) years, calculated from the UAE filing date.
11: Is it possible to file multiple design applications and how many applications can be filed?
Yes, it is possible to file multiple designs in a single application if they are enterrelated in function and use. The number of designs should not exceed 20.
12: Can a pending application be assigned?
Yes, it is possible to file an assignment for a pending application.