United Arab Emirates Establishes National Geographical Indications System for Safeguarding and Enhancing Domestic Goods
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced its first federal Geographical Indications (GI) system, a crucial step in safeguarding the distinctive identities of local products and enhancing their global market appeal. The move was announced by the Ministry of Economy and aims to bolster economic diversification and support sustainable development, in line with the "We the UAE 2031" vision.
The new GI system shields products with unique characteristics tied to specific regions in the UAE by granting them intellectual property (IP) protection. This initiative intends to increase economic growth and contribute to the nation's long-term vision by preventing the unauthorized use of these goods' names and ensuring only genuine products can be marketed under those labels.
The launch event, attended by over 200 stakeholders, included government officials, IP experts, and representatives from local communities. Various entities collaborated in the venture, such as the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, Dubai Municipality, Ras Al Khaimah Department of Economic Development, and the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi.
In its initial phase, GI tagging covers four key products: Hatta honey, Ras Al Khaimah ceramics, Dabbas dates from Al Dhafra, and traditional palm frond crafts. These items are emblematic of the UAE's cultural heritage and are renowned for their exceptional quality and geographic origins.
Application for GI registration is now available online through the Ministry's website, with approximately 25 more products under consideration. The system supports both local and international applications, promising to adhere to global IP standards.
By implementing GI protection, the UAE joins efforts worldwide to preserve traditional knowledge, promote artisanal industries, and empower local producers. The initiative also bolsters Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), expands export opportunities, and aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals concentrated on economic growth and innovation.
The Ministry highlights that GI tags not only protect authenticity but also contribute to the value of national products, helping the UAE position itself as a global hub for quality, innovation, and heritage-driven economic development.
Sources: Emirates News Agency
- The new Geographical Indications (GI) system, launched by the Ministry of Economy, safeguards the unique identities of local products in the UAE, enabling them to compete effectively in the global market.
- The Ministry expects the GI system to contribute to the economic growth of the country by preventing unauthorized use of local products' names and ensuring only genuine products are marketed under those labels.
- The initial phase of the GI system covers four products, including Hatta honey, Ras Al Khaimah ceramics, Dabbas dates, and traditional palm frond crafts, which are integral to the UAE's cultural heritage and known for their high quality.
- The Ministry's website provides an platform for online applications for GI registration, and the system also supports international applications to adhere to global intellectual property (IP) standards.
- The GI tagging initiative will empower local producers, bolster Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), expand export opportunities, and align with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals focused on economic growth, innovation, and heritage preservation, ultimately positioning the UAE as a global hub for quality and heritage-driven economic development.
