GIs are a form of intellectual property that safeguards products uniquely tied to a specific location. They certify that the qualities, characteristics, or reputation of a product are linked to its geographic origin, just like Champagne from France or Darjeeling tea from India.

The legal foundation for Geographical Indications (GIs) in the UAE is established under Chapter Six of Federal Decree-Law No. 36 of 2021 on Trademarks, which outlines a dedicated regime for the recognition, registration, and protection of GIs. According to Article 38, a GI may consist of a sign or a combination of signs in any form—including words (such as geographical or personal names), letters, numbers, colors, or even holographic elements—used to indicate a product’s origin and the associated qualities or reputation derived from that origin. The registration of GIs must comply with the provisions of the law and its Executive Regulations.

Article 39 prohibits the use of misleading or false geographical indications that may deceive consumers about the true origin of a product. It also bans the use of geographical indications (GIs) in ways that would amount to unfair competition, in line with the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property and other applicable international treaties. The protection of geographical indications (GIs), as detailed in Article 40, is conditional upon their recognition and protection in their country of origin, thereby ensuring mutual respect across jurisdictions.

Article 41 provides equal protection for GIs with similar names, so long as such protection does not mislead consumers and ensures equitable treatment for producers. A central administrative mechanism for this system is introduced in Article 42, which mandates the creation of a formal Register of Geographical Indications by the Ministry of Economy. This register will document approved GIs along with all relevant data and actions taken concerning their legal status.

However, not all geographical indications (GIs) are eligible for registration. Article 43 outlines grounds for exclusion, particularly in cases where a GI is likely to cause confusion with existing or pending trademarks that were applied for or used in good faith. Furthermore, if a GI cannot be registered in compliance with the other provisions of the Decree-Law, protection may be denied.

Finally, Article 44 clarifies that the same procedural and legal rules that apply to trademarks—such as application submission, examination, objections, revocation, licensing, and enforcement—also apply to GIs, ensuring coherence and consistency within the broader intellectual property framework. This robust legal foundation supports the UAE’s efforts to protect national heritage, enhance consumer trust, and
promote the global competitiveness of its local products.

The launch of the Geographical Indications (GI) system is strategically important for the United Arab Emirates on multiple fronts. First and foremost, it significantly strengthens the global branding of Emirati products. By assigning official GI status to goods with unique qualities linked to specific regions, such as Hatta honey or Ras Al Khaimah ceramics, these products gain enhanced visibility, authenticity, and competitiveness in both regional and international markets. This legal recognition
boosts consumer trust and elevates the commercial value of traditional United Arab Emirates-made goods.

In addition, the system offers a much-needed layer of legal protection for producers. With GI registration, local businesses and artisans are shielded against the misuse of product names and the proliferation of counterfeit or misleading goods that exploit the reputation of origin-linked products. This is particularly crucial in today’s globalized economy, where imitation and unfair competition can quickly erode the integrity of heritage-based industries.

Moreover, the initiative aligns closely with the United Arab Emirates ’s long-term goals for sustainable development and economic diversification. It supports the preservation of traditional knowledge, rural industries, and cultural craftsmanship, many of which are practiced by small producers, women, and family-run businesses. Protecting these sectors contributes not only to national identity but also to inclusive and resilient economic growth.

Finally, the system’s digital enablement represents a forward-looking dimension. The Ministry of Economy has launched an accessible online platform for GI registration, streamlining the application process and encouraging participation from producers across the United Arab Emirates. This digital infrastructure reflects the country’s broader commitment to innovation, smart governance, and ease of doing business, while reinforcing its position as a leader in intellectual property management in the
region.

Currently, 25 additional products (13 food items and 12 handicrafts) are under review, indicating that this is just the beginning of a broader movement to promote the UAE’s national products.

This initiative aligns with the “We the UAE 2031” strategy and supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in the areas of innovation, inclusive economic growth, and heritage preservation. It marks a transformative moment for local producers, entrepreneurs, and policymakers. Protecting Geographical Indications not only safeguards cultural traditions but also unlocks new
economic opportunities.

Let’s celebrate this achievement and support our local heritage by recognizing the value embedded in our geography, culture, and craftsmanship.

#UAE #GeographicalIndications #IntellectualProperty #Innovation #HattaHoney #IPRights #MOEC #EmiratiProducts #Sustainability #CulturalHeritage #LegalInnovation #MadeInUAE #GI

At LBN IP & Digital Law Consultancy, we proudly support national and regional efforts to elevate intellectual property systems and empower local producers through strategic legal tools such as Geographical Indications. With deep expertise in intellectual property law, brand protection, and legal advisory for traditional and digital assets, our team is well-positioned to assist businesses, cooperatives, and institutions in navigating the registration and enforcement of GIs both locally and internationally. We offer tailored legal solutions that align with your commercial goals while safeguarding your intangible assets.

• Whether you’re a producer seeking GI registration, a startup protecting your brand, or an
  organization looking to build a robust IP strategy, we’re here to help.
• Learn more about our services at www.lbnjurist.com or contact us directly to schedule a
  consultation.

The new convention represents a collective acknowledgment of cybercrime as a grave threat to global security. It establishes clear legal standards and, importantly, promotes coordinated responses. This aim is to fortify international cooperation, enhance law enforcement capabilities, and bolster capacity-building initiatives. This comprehensive approach, designed to mitigate the risks posed by cyber threats and safeguard the integrity of the global digital infrastructure, unites countries in a common cause, providing a sense of security to the international community.

The convention goes beyond addressing traditional crimes such as terrorism, drug trafficking, and human trafficking. It also tackles the escalating challenges posed by cyber- enabled financial fraud, intellectual property theft, and the exploitation of digital currencies. By providing a unified legal framework, the convention empowers countries to work together more effectively in investigating and prosecuting cybercrimes, extraditing cybercriminals, and sharing crucial information, instilling hope for a more secure digital future.

While the convention represents a significant milestone, its successful implementation will require concerted efforts to overcome various challenges. Differences in national legal systems, resource disparities among countries, and the rapidly evolving nature of technology are hurdles that must be addressed. However, the convention also presents unprecedented international collaboration and knowledge-sharing opportunities. By fostering a global community united in combating cybercrime, it has the potential to create a more secure and resilient digital ecosystem, offering hope for a safer digital future.

Despite its ambitions, the convention has sparked controversy, particularly among civil society organizations and major digital enterprises. Critics argue that certain provisions could be misused by authoritarian regimes to suppress journalists, activists, and marginalized communities, raising concerns about potential abuses of power under the guise of combating cybercrime.

Russia’s initial draft of the convention, proposed in 2017, has undergone significant revisions, yet concerns remain. Some EU member states, for instance, continue to support the 2001 Budapest Convention on Cybercrime, which they view as a more balanced and established framework.

Human rights advocates and tech giants like HP, Meta, and Microsoft have expressed reservations about the new convention, arguing that it lacks sufficient safeguards against potential misuse. They warn that without rigorous oversight, the convention could become a tool for repression, particularly in countries with weak legal protections for civil liberties.

“Despite multiple rounds of negotiations, fundamental flaws continue to plague this proposed cybercrime convention, which poses a significant risk to human rights and fails to effectively tackle cybercrime,” said Deborah Brown, acting associate technology and human rights director at Human Rights Watch. “If states cannot agree on vital human right safeguards and a narrow scope, then we urge them to reject it.”²

Nick Ashton-Hart, head of the Cybersecurity Tech Accord delegation, stated, “So far, Cybercrime Treaty delegates have failed to address even one of the shortcomings UN Human Rights has identified in the draft.” “Unfortunately, [the treaty] was adopted today.”
“Unfortunately, [the treaty] was adopted today,” Nick Ashton-Hart wrote on X.

As the convention approaches its final adoption, the international community stands at a crossroads. The convention can become a cornerstone in the global fight against cybercrime, but only if implemented with care and vigilance. A comprehensive and balanced approach is critical to ensure that the convention strengthens global security without compromising fundamental human rights.

1. https://www.unodc.org/unodc/frontpage/2024/August/united-nations_-member-states-finalize-a-new-cybercrime-convention.html

2. https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/01/23/un-draft-cybercrime-treaty-threatens-rights

Dr. Leila’s journey began with a deep-rooted passion for law and an insatiable curiosity about the world of technology. Armed with a Doctorate in Private Law and Criminal Sciences from the University of Montpellier, a Master’s Degree in Law of Innovation, Communication, Culture, and Digital Creation from Paris-Sud 11 University, and a Master’s Degree in International Business Law from Sorbonne University, her academic foundation laid the groundwork for what would become a remarkable career.

With over 15 years of experience in Intellectual Property and ICT Law, Dr. Leila is a versatile expert. Her expertise spans various crucial domains such as intellectual property law, cyber law, business law, competition law, and more. She is also deeply immersed in emergent technologies, understanding their legal implications and intricacies.

What sets Dr. Leila apart is her ability to bridge the gap between technology and the legal realm. She is not only well-versed in the intricacies of the law but also possesses a profound understanding of technology and its implications on society and business. This enables her to translate complex legal jargon into actionable insights for tech-oriented businesses.

Dr. Leila is more than an expert in law; she is a creative innovator. Her focus goes beyond traditional legal frameworks. She is passionate about finding innovative, flexible, and adaptive solutions that provide real value to clients. She thrives in the realm of intellectual property, digitalization, business development, intellectual capital management, IP strategy & organization, technology transfer, innovation, and knowledge management.

Dr. Leila Ben Nasr’s vision and expertise are the driving force behind LBN. She leads a team of dedicated professionals who share her passion for innovation, knowledge, and legal excellence. Together, they empower businesses, startups, academic institutions, and individuals to navigate the legal challenges of the digital age.

With Dr. Leila at the helm, LBN’s vision is clear: to empower innovation, protect intellectual assets, and foster growth for clients across the globe. Her commitment to excellence, innovation advocacy, and legal expertise make LBN a trusted partner for organizations seeking to thrive in the ever-evolving world of law, technology, and intellectual property.

Dr. Leila Ben Nasr is not just a founder; she’s a visionary leader on a mission to shape the future of law and innovation.

For more insights and updates from Dr. Leila Ben Nasr and the team at LBN, stay tuned to our blog and social media channels.

Data privacy is not just a legal requirement; it’s a fundamental right. As more data is generated and shared across various platforms, the need to ensure its privacy and security has become paramount. Businesses and individuals need to comply with a myriad of data privacy laws and regulations to protect their data effectively.

Our Data Privacy and Protection Services are crafted to guide and support you in navigating this complex landscape, ensuring that your data remains safe, secure, and compliant.

Data privacy laws and regulations can be overwhelming and constantly evolving. We provide expert guidance to ensure your organization is compliant with the latest data privacy laws such as GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA, and more. Our experts help you understand the legal requirements and implement necessary measures.

A comprehensive and well-structured privacy policy is the foundation of data privacy. We assist in crafting and updating privacy policies and procedures specific to your organization, reflecting your commitment to safeguarding data and ensuring transparency with your users.

Understanding the vulnerabilities in your data handling processes is crucial. Our team conducts thorough data security assessments to identify potential risks and recommend strategies to enhance your data security measures.

Employees are often the first line of defense against data breaches. We offer tailored training programs to educate your staff about data privacy best practices, reducing the risk of human error and enhancing overall data security.

No matter how robust your data protection measures are, incidents may still occur. We help you develop effective incident response plans to mitigate damage, comply with reporting requirements, and restore trust with stakeholders.

Transferring data across borders requires careful consideration of legal implications. We guide you in understanding the cross-border data transfer laws and help you ensure compliance when dealing with international data transfers.

Data privacy is an ongoing commitment. We provide continuous monitoring of privacy laws, regular updates, and ongoing support to ensure your organization stays ahead of any changes in the regulatory landscape.

Our team comprises seasoned experts in data privacy and protection, well-versed in global data privacy laws and regulations. We are dedicated to helping you fortify your data privacy defenses and empowering you to handle sensitive information with confidence.

At LBN, we believe that your data deserves the highest level of protection. Our Data Privacy and Protection Services are designed to be your trusted ally in this digital age. Let’s work together to ensure your data is secure, your privacy is respected, and your organization remains compliant with evolving data privacy regulations.

For more information about our Data Privacy and Protection Services, contact us today

Innovation deserves protection. Our specialized team at LBN is devoted to safeguarding your intellectual property. Whether it’s a novel product design, a groundbreaking algorithm, or a unique brand identity, we guide you through the complexities of patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. With us by your side, your innovative concepts are fortified against imitation or misuse, allowing you to innovate fearlessly.

Compliance is not merely a legal obligation; it’s a strategy for sustainable growth. For startups, understanding and adhering to legal compliance can be overwhelming amidst the whirlwind of operations. We simplify this journey for you. LBN provides comprehensive insights and actionable steps to ensure your startup complies with industry regulations and legal requirements, building a foundation for trust and credibility.

In the fast-paced startup world, having the right legal partner is crucial. We go beyond traditional legal counsel. At LBN, we become an extension of your team, offering strategic guidance that aligns with your business goals. From contract negotiations to strategic partnerships, we help you make informed decisions that fuel growth and innovation.