The International Trademark Association has announced the establishment of its regional office for the Middle East and North Africa in Dubai. This was revealed during the association’s annual meeting held in San Diego, USA, with operations set to commence in the second half of 2025.
The new office aims to bolster efforts in protecting intellectual property rights across the region, enhance collaboration with local and regional partners, expand awareness and training activities, and actively engage in the development of related policies and legislation, particularly in light of the rapid economic growth experienced by Gulf countries and the Arab world.
The association noted that choosing Dubai as the office’s location reflects its leading role as a global hub for innovation and its advanced legislative framework for protecting intellectual property, along with its impressive rankings in competitiveness and business practices.
Lieutenant General Dr. Abdulqadoos Abdulrazzaq Al Obaidly, President of the Emirates Intellectual Property Association, expressed support for this historical initiative and welcomed the opening of the regional office in Dubai, which has proven to be a global center for innovation and progressive legislation in intellectual property protection.
This office represents a strategic opportunity to enhance collaboration and integrate efforts between national and international institutions to combat infringements on commercial rights and create a conducive environment for investment and creativity.
Ettiene Sanz de Acedo, the director general of the International Trademark Association, stated that the opening of the INTA office in Dubai directly responds to the increasing number of members in the Middle East and North Africa, reflecting the desire to strengthen the association’s presence in a region characterized by economic vitality and cultural diversity. The organization is committed to supporting countries in protecting trademark rights, with a focus on training, combating counterfeiting, and actively participating in policy development.
Huda Barakat, board member of the Emirates Intellectual Property Association and the International Trademark Association, commented that having INTA at the heart of the region marks a significant step forward in fostering regional dialogue on intellectual property issues, creating new avenues for exchanging international experiences and practices. The UAE has always been at the forefront of supporting innovation, and the establishment of this office is a testament to global organizations’ confidence in its legal and regulatory environment. The Emirates Intellectual Property Association is fully prepared to support the new office in achieving its strategic objectives and contributing to a safer and fairer future for intellectual property rights in the region.