How long trademark registration takes in the UAEQuick answer
A straightforward UAE trademark application usually completes in a few months. By law the Ministry decides within 90 days of filing (its average is 20–45 working days, or one working day with expedited examination); publication is followed by a 30-day opposition period, and the certificate is issued within 30 days after that.
Checked against official sources on 11 October 2026 · see sources
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Stage by stage
| Stage | Time |
|---|---|
| Examination decision | Within 90 days of filing by law; the Ministry quotes an average of 20–45 working days. One working day with expedited examination. |
| Your reply to an objection | 30 days from notice |
| Publication | After you pay the publication fee; the Bulletin is issued twice a month |
| Opposition window | 30 days from the Bulletin date |
| Certificate | Within 30 days after the opposition window, once the registration fee is paid |
What slows it down
- Objections to the goods and services wording, or to similarity with an earlier mark.
- An opposition by a third party — the Ministry quotes an average of about 60 working days.
- Paying fees late (and late penalties).
- Missing documents, such as an un-notarised power of attorney.
How to speed it up
Search before you file, describe your goods and services clearly in each class, and pay each fee as soon as it is due. The AED 2,250 one-day examination shortens only the first stage — publication and the 30-day opposition window still run normally.
Questions
Can I use my brand while the application is pending?
Yes, you can use it, but rights come from registration. Use ™ while pending; ® is generally used only once the mark is registered.
From when is my trademark protected?
Protection is counted from the filing date and lasts 10 years.