Hall Of Fame

Intellectual property in United Arab Emirates

Al Tamimi & Company

With particular activity in intellectual property anti-counterfeiting and enforcement, Al Tamimi & Company is skilled at portfolio management. Omar Obeidat handles intellectual property litigation and prosecution, while Ahmad Saleh is particularly well-versed in patent commercialisation. Rasha Al Ardah is informed in the intellectual property aspects of IPOs, joint ventures, as well as M&A. Other key members of the team include Ahmad Zaza and Mariam Sabet, who is reputed for her capabilities in cross-border disputes.

Responsables de la pratique:

Omar Obeidat; Ahmad Saleh


Autres avocats clés:

Rasha Al Ardah; Ahmad Zaza; Mariam Sabet


Les références

‘Al Tamimi & Company stands out for its unparalleled expertise in intellectual property and anti-piracy. The firm’s strategic approach, combining legal action, advocacy, and lobbying, ensures comprehensive solutions for even the most complex, multi-jurisdictional cases.’

‘The IP team at Al Tamimi & Company provides exceptional service across the GCC and beyond, with in-depth knowledge of local and international systems. Their ability to explain the nuances between regional practices and those in Europe and the USA is invaluable.’

‘Clients benefit from their modern, progressive outlook.’

Principaux clients

FIFA


MBC Group


AbbVie


Pure Impact FZCO


American University of Sharjah


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised on the regional anti-piracy campaign for Dassault Systems in the UAE, Oman, Kuwait, KSA, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, and Egypt.
  • Advised Delivery Hero/ Talabaat on brand protection and IP strategy.
  • Advised Yalla Group Limited on multijurisdictional brand protection.

Clyde & Co LLP

A key port of call for entertainment, hospitality, as well as retail entities, Clyde & Co LLP covers trademark commercialisation, disputes, and prosecution. Joycia Young oversees the team and is proficient in brand protection, licensing, patents, and trademarks, while Anna Caruso is knowledgeable of trademark filings surrounding the Madrid Protocol.

Responsables de la pratique:

Joycia Young


Autres avocats clés:

Anna Caruso


Principaux clients

Etihad Airways


Principaux dossiers


Bird & Bird

Often advising international hotel chains on franchising agreements, Bird & Bird is geared to handle copyright, patent, and trademark matters. Melissa Murray leads the team and is well-versed in intellectual property licensing, protection, and regulatory issues. Sau Lin Wan is vastly experienced in intellectual property enforcement, Eddie Chiu is active in the life sciences sector, while Richard Guageler and Sahar Tarhini are knowledgeable of patent protection.

Responsables de la pratique:

Melissa Murray


Autres avocats clés:

Sau Lin Wan; Eddie Chiu; Richard Guageler; Sahar Tarhini


Les références

‘Bird & Bird stands out for its proactive, thorough, and detail-oriented approach. Clients consistently commend the team’s responsiveness and trustworthiness, which set them apart in the competitive IP legal market.’

‘Their ability to handle complex issues with speed and professionalism has made them a top choice for both private and government clients.’

‘The firm’s exceptional customer service and ability to adapt to the unique demands of government sectors further enhance their reputation. Clients appreciate the team’s insightful advice, backed by international studies and comparisons, providing strong, persuasive solutions that add value to any project.’

Principaux clients

Huda Beauty


Papa John’s


The Grooming Company


TGI Friday’s


Circle K Procurement and Brands Limited


The Social Gaming Group


Butlers Chocolate Cafe


Principaux dossiers


DLA Piper

A key port of call for domestic and international clients on trademark portfolio management, DLA Piper's team is headed by Saba Al Sultani, who is skilled at copyright, domain, and trademark matters, and counts consumer goods, energy, and retail companies as clients. Paul Allen is global co-chair of the intellectual property and technology practice, while Alicia Ma is proficient in copyright enforcement and protection. Rachel Pieris often handles brand licensing and intellectual property settlement agreements.

Responsables de la pratique:

Saba Al Sultani


Autres avocats clés:

Paul Allen; Alicia Ma; Rachel Pieris


Les références

‘DLA Piper’s UAE office consistently delivers exceptional service, marked by responsiveness, efficiency, and unmatched expertise in the IP sector. Clients value the firm’s ability to act as a true ‘one-stop shop’ for all IP needs, both contentious and non-contentious, across the MENA region. Their extensive local presence, deep knowledge, and experience set them apart, ensuring that clients receive the highest level of service tailored to their needs.’

‘The practice is particularly noted for its seamless management of global IP portfolios, allowing businesses to entrust their most valuable assets with confidence. Their strong IP practice is well-organised, reducing the need for constant follow-ups and ensuring clients always feel supported.’

‘Saba Al Sultani is widely regarded as one of the region’s top IP specialists and she stands out for her ability to tackle complex IP challenges with innovative and commercially savvy solutions. Clients describe her as a “shrewd operator” who excels at breaking down intricate issues into clear, actionable advice. She is fiercely committed to defending her clients’ rights and is highly trusted to safeguard their most valuable assets.’

Principaux dossiers


Gowling WLG

The full-service intellectual property department at Gowling WLG is geared to handle copyright, design, patent, and trademark prosecution. Jon Parker is well-versed in brand protection, portfolio management, as well as product creation and development. Rachel Armstrong is proficient in intellectual property commercialisation and enforcement, while Bachir A Chakra has more than a decade of experience in the sector.

Responsables de la pratique:

Jon Parker; Rachel Armstrong; Bachir A Chakra


Autres avocats clés:

Samantha Yung; Noor Hasan; Marian Fayek: Daniel Eid; Tamara El-Shibib


Les références

‘The team at Gowling WLG has a depth of experience in IP matters in the Middle East.’

‘Gowling WLG is a very internationally experienced firm. Their in-depth knowledge of IP, including local legislation, combined with extensive practical experience in the UK and GCC, makes them a standout choice. It’s amazing to have a firm with such an exceptional range of skills, particularly in the IP area.’

‘Gowling WLG has one of the best IP practices in the UAE. Their extensive knowledge of patent prosecution requirements in the Middle East provides valuable guidance for protecting clients’ inventions.’

Principaux clients

A Middle East leisure & real estate development company


A UAE headquartered hospitality group


Ecolab USA, Inc


Global Car Group Pte. Ltd


Asia HQd Global Energy Company


A European automotive company


UAE Free Zone Authority


UAE R&D company


UAE Government entity


Principaux dossiers


  • Assisted a hospitality company with a global rebranding project.
  • Advised a UAE based client on intellectual property asset management.
  • Successfully defended domain name complaints against desconllc.com and desconautomation.ae.

Hadef & Partners LLC

Hadef & Partners LLC’s broad caseload encompasses litigious intellectual property matters before the Court of Cassation. James Dunne oversees the practice and is often engaged in brand protection and trademark portfolio enforcement, while Mhammad Malaeb is experienced in anti-counterfeiting and infringement actions.

Responsables de la pratique:

James Dunne


Autres avocats clés:

Mhammad Malaeb


Les références

‘A very organised and professional team. They are always helpful and meet the deadlines.’

‘James Dunn is dedicated to his work. He has deep knowledge of trademarks, their registration, disputes, and a detailed approach to each case.’

‘The team team led by James Dunne consistently delivers excellent results.’

Principaux dossiers


Charles Russell Speechlys LLP

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP is often engaged in intellectual property enforcement, management, and registration. With over three decades of experience in the sector, Mark Hill spearheads the team and is a key port of call for financial service entities, technology providers, and telecommunications firms. Lara Haidar is knowledgeable of brand custodianship and Anna Hackworth is another key team member.

Responsables de la pratique:

Mark Hill


Autres avocats clés:

Lara Haidar; Anna Hackworth


Les références

‘The team is unique and very effective,’

‘While the team members show a high level of subject matter expertise and international knowledge of legal and commercial issues, they are also very well acquainted with regional (MENWA) cultures.’

 

Principaux clients

Saudi Film Commission


Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee


The Saudi Football Federation & Saudi Pro League


Image Nation Abu Dhabi


International Cricket Council


Oman Air


Al Tayer Group


Shaw Europe Limited


Azadea Group


Alivia Analytics


Sacha Jafri


Luxury Living Group


Thomas Ovesen


Telecommunications Regulatory Authority Bahrain


Creative Technology Middle East (CT Group)


Republic of Design Events LLC


VIP Films


The Tribe


Brash Brands


Epic Films


Joy Films


Mestaria


Navigation Films


Etisalat


Navigation Film


Amazon Global


Principaux dossiers


  • Acted as general counsel to the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee.
  • Advising a client on IP issues surrounding a significant historical film project.
  • Acted for the Al Tayer Group on the the development of its own home-grown brands.

The Bench

The Bench’s key strengths lie in franchising, intellectual property infringements, and technology licensing. Joby Beretta and Russell Woodford co-lead the practice, and Beretta is vastly experienced in data protection, media and entertainment, as well as telecoms matters.

Responsables de la pratique:

Joby Beretta; Russell Woolford


Les références

‘They are great, so approachable, and easy to work with. Legal work can be intimidating as it’s not always easy to understand, but the team always ensure they explain everything in a way what is easy for me to digest, which I really appreciate.’

‘Joby Beretta always supports us.’

Principaux clients

RMAL Hospitality


White Rice Consultancy


LPME Studios


LPME Records


Accor Hotels


LifeOnScreen


Finyal Media


Redington Gulf


DRVN Coffee


Golden Tulip MENA


Dhana Al Ali


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised RMAL Hospitality PJSC on a franchise development agreement with The Social Gaming Group.
  • Advised Danah Al Ali on sponsorship agreements with Adnoc, Aldar, and Thuraya.
  • Advised various UAE based studios on film and TV production agreements.

Abion Intellectual Property Registration LLC

Established in January 2024, Abion Intellectual Property Registration LLC is experienced in domain name management, online brand protection, and trademark management. Mark Devaney is proficient in copyright and design infringements, while Nicole Giblin is well-versed in domain disputes and the Madrid Protocol.

Responsables de la pratique:

Mark Devaney; Nicole Giblin


Les références

‘The team at Abion are amazing, and we really enjoy working with them. They respond quickly to our emails and come up with sensible solutions.’

‘Nicole Giblin is an excellent lawyer. She also has a knack of finding a commercial solution that resolves the matter efficiently and cost-effectively. Nicole is an absolute pleasure to work with.’

‘Nicole Giblin and Mark Devaney are friendly, personable, and have very good knowledge of practices and procedures in the GCC markets.’

Principaux clients

Wheel Pros


Bath & Body Works


Principaux dossiers


  • Represnted Wheel Pros in authority administrative complaints surrounding counterfeit products in the region.
  • Advised Wheel Pros on the enforcement of their famous RHONO brand against infringers in the region.
  • Advised Bath & Body Works on their regional trade mark and design protection strategy.

Alem & Associates

Alem & Associates is well-equipped to handle national and international copyright, trademark, and tradename disputes. Leila Laila oversees the department and is a key port of call for various media entities on copyright and trademark development, licensing, and protection. Mohamed Abu Al-Ela is principally focused on intellectual property enforcement and Omar Moussally is another key team member.

Responsables de la pratique:

Leila Laila


Autres avocats clés:

Mohamed Abu Al-Ela; Omar Moussally


Les références

‘At Alem & Associates, the intellectual property practice stands out for its deep expertise in navigating IP landscapes while focusing on delivering tailored solutions that meet our specific needs. I value their strategic approach, which combines legal precision with business insight—setting them apart from other firms.’

‘Leila Laila stands out for her exceptional commitment to her work, bringing a unique blend of technical expertise and practical business acumen that is rare to find. Her precision and ability to anticipate challenges have been invaluable. What I appreciate most is her collaborative approach—she always makes me feel like a partner in the process, rather than just a client. This level of personalised attention and dedication is truly unmatched.’

Principaux clients

Alnajma Film Productions


Kababji Group


Famous Brands Limited


Charisma Group


Say N’ See


Principaux dossiers


  • Represented a leading architecture firm on an architectural work copyright infringement claim.
     
  • Advised Famous Brands on licensing trademarks and franchising out its restaurant concepts in the UAE.

BSA Law

BSA Law is often engaged in intellectual property litigation, as well as patent and trademark prosecution. Commended for her ‘comprehensive advice’ Felicity Hammond leads the team and is proficient in brand protection and enforcement.

Responsables de la pratique:

Felicity Hammond


Les références

‘We appreciate the very practical approach they take to solving the issues we face.’

‘Their responsiveness and excellent quality of legal advice makes them stand out.’

‘Felicity Hammond is a very competent lawyer who fully dives into a matter and provides comprehensive advice.’

Principaux clients

Haribo/Rigo Trading


Emirates Draw LLC


Monterock International Limited


Gorilla Drinks Ltd


ADMO Hotel Management Limited


Olaplex Inc.


Leonardo UK Ltd


Innovative Fluid Systems


Nammos


World Wrestling Entertainment LLC


Andersen Tax


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Emirates Draw LLC on filing trademarks for their various games and competitions in the UAE, US, and EU.
  • Advised Premium Beverages P.B Limited / Gorilla Drinks Limited following an infringement of their IP rights by a local entity in the UAE.
  • Advised Monterock International Limited on securing trademark registrations for its own trade name.

Eversheds Sutherland LLP

Eversheds Sutherland LLP is considerably experienced in handling intellectual property enforcement and protection for Fortune 100, 500, and 1000 companies. Nasser Ali Khasawneh leads the practice and is especially knowledgeable of contentious digital transformation work. Other key members in the team include Andrew Garbett, who is proficient in intellectual property contracting, licensing, and litigation.

Responsables de la pratique:

Nasser Ali Khasawneh


Autres avocats clés:

Andrew Garbett


Principaux clients

World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO)


Danone


Seddiqi Holding


Philip Morris International Management S.A. (PMI)


Autodesk


Bentley


Principaux dossiers


  • Represented Philip Morris International Inc in IP enforcement cases with UAE customs and Dubai government authorities.
  • Represented Autodesk in software IP enforcement against infringers in the UAE.

Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants

Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants is noted for its activity in copyright infringement, patent reports, and trademark registration. Raka Roy is knowledgeable of copyright law, as well as commercial intellectual property matters, while Abdulla Ziad Galadari is vastly experienced in litigious matters.

Responsables de la pratique:

Raka Roy; Abdulla Ziad Galadari


Principaux clients

Global Wellness Trading LLC


Ayika Project Management Services LLC


Spotnik Technologies LLC


Richmond Mercantile Limited FZC


EPAM Law


Principaux dossiers


  • Represented a client in a dispute valued over USD 600 million involving an .ae domain name before the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
  • Advised a governmental entity on a work-for-hire agreement to ensure clear copyright ownership of artwork, identifying risks and recommending improvements for full control and legal protection.
     
  • Advised a client concerning the licensing of their trademark rights to a company based abroad.

Simmons & Simmons Middle East LLP

Simmons & Simmons Middle East LLP is well regarded for its data protection and IP exploitation expertise. With over a decade of experience in the sector, Raza Rizvi oversees the practice, while Alexandra Harmer is proficient in the transfer of intellectual property rights. Jas Shoker is particularly active in the fintech sector, Owen Afriye is well-versed in licensing, and Vishal Patel is another key team member.

Responsables de la pratique:

Raza Rizvi


Autres avocats clés:

Alexandra Harmer; Jas Shoker; Owen Afriye; Vishal Patel


Les références

‘They are experts in complex data matters and IP commercialisation. They are creative problem-solving counsel, and they bring the best of the whole firm to projects.’

‘The team’s focus on emerging technology and data enhances their well-rounded IP offering. Their understanding of commercial IP issues in the context of complex technology, such as Web3, AI, and Blockchain, is a standout feature. They bring deep sector expertise to a whole host of commercial IP work, including R&D, licensing, and IP-rich transactional work.’

‘Their practice stands out in the region for the know-how and technical expertise they can bring, particularly in innovative and developing areas such as AI. I always recommend them to clients where cutting-edge knowledge is required for new or developing technologies.’

Principaux clients

G42


ADIA Labs


Gulf Data Hub


Honeywell Inc.


AIQ


American Express


M42


ADNOC


DataRobot


Malomatia


Ripple Labs


Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company


STC


Dubizzle Group


Toyota Connected


E& money


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Honeywell on its strategic joint venture with Saudi Aramco for a digital transformation.
  • Advised Honeywell on the Middle East aspects of a mega deal set to redefine the landscape around control systems through the global acquisition of Carrier Controls.
     
     
     
  • Advised ADIA Lab on its global program to fund and develop systems for extracting insights from data.