Q: Which law does the country implement relating to trademarks?
A: Law No. 23 of 2010 pertaining to Trademarks and Geographical Indications
Q: Is the country part of Paris Convention?
A: Yes
Q: Is the country part of the Madrid Protocol?
A: No
Q: Is the country part of the Madrid Agreement?
A: No
Q: Is the country part of the TRIPS Agreement?
A: Yes
Q: Is Apostil Acceptable?
A: No
Q: Which classification of goods/services does the country adopt?
A: 8th Edition of Nice Classification
Q: Are there any restrictions or limitations on the list of goods?
A: Yes, the below goods and services cannot be registered:
- Pork and related products
- Alcoholic beverages and related products
- Bar and night club services
Q: Can I register a trademark on class header?
A: Yes
Q: Are there any restrictions on the use of the ® and TM symbols?
A: ® and TM symbols may not be a part of the trademark while filing it, but can be used along with a registered trademark
Q: Can priority be claimed?
A: Yes
Q: Can colors be claimed?
A: Yes
Q: Can you file a disclaimer in the filing application?
A: No
Q: Can you conduct a search by applicant name?
A: Yes
Q: Is the certificate issued in paper or electronically?
A: Paper
Q: If we register in one GCC country does it mean we are protected in the country?
A: No, there is no cooperation treaty for trademarks in the GCC.
Q: Is there a requirement of use of mark to maintain the trademark registration throughout the entire valid protection period or to renew the mark?
A: Yes, but the TMO does not request any proof of use. However any interested third party can file a cancellation action against your trademark registration if the mark was not used for 5 consecutive years.
Q: If the applicant failed to renew the mark, can any third party re-register the same mark?
A: A mark, which is not renewed, cannot be re-registered in favor of third parties in respect of identical or similar goods or services before the lapse of three years from the date of non-renewal.
Q: Can the applicant withdraw the trademark application at any time?
A: Yes
Q: Can you assign or amend details of a trademark that is under process?
A: No, any assignment or amendment should be done after the registration of the trademark is completed.
Q: Do you have to include a consideration on the assignment document?
A: Yes
Q: Are there any specific custom procedures in the country?
A: Yes