UAE Engages In Diplomatic Conference On Design Law Treaty In Riyadh

The UAE took part in the Diplomatic Conference to Conclude and Adopt a Design Law Treaty held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 11th to 22nd November. This event, chaired by Saudi Arabia under the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), was crucial for finalising negotiations on a treaty aimed at enhancing legal protection for industrial designs and intellectual property both regionally and globally.

Dr. Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini, Assistant Undersecretary for IP Rights Sector at the Ministry of Economy, represented the UAE. Daren Tang, Director-General of WIPO, along with representatives from other member states, also attended. Al Muaini stressed the treaty's importance as a milestone in simplifying industrial design registration worldwide. The treaty aims to provide tools and mechanisms to strengthen the multilateral IP framework.

The treaty includes provisions such as prohibiting unauthorised claims on traditional designs and endorsing technical assistance requests. These require increased cooperation among member states for successful negotiations. Dr. Al Muaini highlighted the need for alignment among member states and industrial design owners, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

"The UAE is committed to supporting the conference and its outcomes," stated Dr. Al Muaini. He emphasised the UAE's dedication to collaborating with WIPO member states by exchanging knowledge and best practices. The country aims to join all WIPO treaties on IP and actively support global initiatives in this field.

The UAE recently launched new initiatives to bolster IP protection domestically, including 31 integrated projects fostering innovation according to global standards. One notable project is the 'Patent Incubator,' which aids patent registration across all seven emirates, encouraging innovators to secure IP rights for their creations.

The UAE's IP sector has seen significant growth in registered trademarks, reaching 356,408 by September 2024. Additionally, over 15,000 patents, utility certificates, and industrial designs were registered during this period.

Furthermore, Dr. Al Muaini expressed support for Pakistan's statement on behalf of the Asia-Pacific Group at the conference. This endorsement reflects the UAE's commitment to regional collaboration within international forums.

The conference also aimed at promoting innovation and creativity culture globally. By participating actively in such events, the UAE demonstrates its dedication to advancing intellectual property protection worldwide.

With inputs from WAM