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Trademark Registration in Qatar
In 2024, Qatar became the fourth member state of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to accede to the Madrid Protocol on trademark protection, significantly increasing its attractiveness as a jurisdiction for trademark registration.
The process of registering a trademark in Qatar has a number of specific features, and selecting the optimal brand protection strategy depends on the particular needs of your company. The Law&Trust International team possesses the necessary expertise to thoroughly examine all the nuances of your case and offer solutions that can ensure reliable protection of your trademark rights in the Qatari market.
Contents
Why register a trademark in Qatar?
Registering a trademark in Qatar is essential to protect your brand and business in the local market.
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Legal protection. Registration grants exclusive rights to use the trademark in Qatar, enabling you to prevent counterfeiting and unlawful use of your brand.
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Protection from copying and «brand hijackers». Without registration, other companies may register your brand and prohibit its use. Qatar follows the “first-to-file” principle, so it is crucial to secure your rights in advance.
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Access to the Qatari and GCC markets. Qatar is a key economic hub of the Middle East with a growing market. A trademark can serve as the foundation for franchising, licensing, or exports. In the future, there may be opportunities to extend protection to other GCC member states, as consultations on creating a unified trademark system are already underway.
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Strengthening business reputation. A registered trademark increases the trust of customers and partners.
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Protection of domain names and social media accounts. Registration can help you claim relevant domains (.qa) and social media handles.
Who needs trademark registration in Qatar?
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International companies entering the Qatari market
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Local Qatari businesses - startups, retail, manufacturing - registration helps protect the company name, corporate identity, and advertising slogans
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Franchise networks seeking to protect their recognizable brand image
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Enterprises in Qatar’s key economic sectors: construction and real estate, tourism, finance, luxury goods
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Businesses planning regional expansion into GCC markets
Trademark registration procedure in Qatar
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Application SubmissionTrademark registration in Qatar is overseen by the Patent Office of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Each class of goods and services must be filed separately in accordance with the Nice Classification. Applicants may include any commercial entities - trading companies, manufacturers, and service providers - however, foreign applicants must apply exclusively through locally licensed patent agents.
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Initial reviewThe procedure involves several stages: an initial review to ensure correct documentation.
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Substantive examinationA substantive examination is to verify originality and confirm that the mark is not similar to existing registrations.
Interestingly, even marks that are not sufficiently distinctive may be registered if the applicant proves acquired distinctiveness through prolonged commercial use or an existing international registration. The process usually takes about a year. -
Publication in the official trademark registryA key stage is the publication of the application in the official trademark registry, after which potential opponents have four months to file objections.
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Disputes reviewDisputes are initially reviewed by the registrar, whose decision can later be appealed in Qatari civil courts.
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Trademark registrationIt is important to remember that registration is based on the «first-to-file» principle, making prompt filing crucial. All documentation must be submitted exclusively in Arabic. To increase the likelihood of a successful registration, it is advisable to conduct a prior clearance search, gather evidence of actual use, and secure the assistance of an experienced local patent representative.
Our trademark registration services in Qatar
Law&Trust provides a full range of trademark registration services in Qatar: we conduct preliminary clearance searches, advise on necessary modifications to enhance distinctiveness, prepare and file applications with the Trademark Office, handle the examination process, respond to potential objections, and obtain the registration certificate. We also assist with trademark renewals, amendments to the register, and enforcement of brand rights in cases of infringement. We offer a turnkey solution - from initial consultation to full legal support of your brand in Qatar.
