Trademark recordation with UAE customs

What recordation does

Customs can inspect shipments on its own initiative. When a recorded trademark appears on goods that look fake, customs holds the shipment and notifies the owner or its local representative. If nobody responds in time, the goods are usually released.

What you need

• A valid UAE trademark registration certificate — recordation is not possible on an application.
• The customs application form, filed by the owner or a local representative.
• A legalised and translated power of attorney if a representative files for you.
• Recommended: photos or samples of genuine products and a short guide to telling them apart from fakes.

When customs holds a shipment

• Deadline: about 3 working days in Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah, and about 8 in Abu Dhabi (customs can extend).
• Complaint: you file a complaint against the importer; the fee varies by emirate (often around AED 2,000).
• Destruction: confirmed fakes are usually destroyed; the owner normally pays the destruction costs.

Because the deadlines are so short, most owners appoint a local agent who can respond the same day.

Before you start

Register the trademark first — how to register in the UAE — then record it with customs in every emirate where your goods arrive. See also other enforcement routes.

Questions