International Trademark Association Establishes New Office In Dubai To Enhance IP Protection Across MENA Region

The International Trademark Association (INTA) has announced the launch of a new regional office in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This move is part of its strategy to enhance its global footprint. The announcement was made during INTA’s Annual Meeting in San Diego, USA. The Dubai office is set to commence operations in the latter half of 2025.

The Dubai office will be pivotal for INTA's collaboration with local and regional partners. It aims to expand outreach and training activities while supporting intellectual property rights protection across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). This initiative aligns with the region's rapid economic growth and will aid in policy development and stakeholder capacity building.

Major General Dr. Abdul Quddus Abdulrazzaq Al Obaidli, Chairman of the Emirates Intellectual Property Association (EIPA), commented: "We congratulate INTA on this historic achievement and warmly welcome the opening of its regional office in Dubai—an innovation hub and a global leader in intellectual property legislation. This office represents a strategic opportunity to strengthen cooperation and align national and international efforts in combating infringement of commercial rights while fostering an environment conducive to investment and creativity."

Etienne Sanz de Acedo, CEO of INTA, highlighted that the new office reflects the association's response to growing membership in MENA. He stated: "The opening of INTA’s office in Dubai is a direct response to the remarkable growth in our membership across the Middle East and North Africa, and our desire to have a stronger presence in this economically dynamic and culturally diverse region. We are committed to supporting governments in their trademark protection efforts and will focus on training, anti-counterfeiting, and active engagement in policy development."

Hoda Barakat, Board Member of both EIPA and INTA, expressed her pride: "INTA’s presence in the heart of the region is a transformative step that will enhance regional dialogue on IP matters and open new avenues for exchanging international expertise and best practices. The UAE has consistently been at the forefront of supporting innovation, and the opening of this office is a testament to global confidence in its legal and regulatory environment."

Commitment to Regional Development

The Emirates Intellectual Property Association congratulated INTA on this initiative. They affirmed their readiness to support the new office's strategic goals. Their aim is to contribute towards a secure future for intellectual property rights throughout MENA.

This expansion signifies INTA's dedication to strengthening intellectual property frameworks globally. By establishing a base in Dubai, they aim to foster innovation while ensuring robust protection against commercial rights infringements across the region.

With inputs from WAM