Key takeaways
- UAE trademark law covers words, names, logos, drawings, colours, shapes and sounds.
- A word mark protects the name in any style; a device mark protects the image as filed.
- MoET lists no separate fee for logos: both cost AED 750 + AED 750 + AED 5,000 per class.
- A combined mark protects the name-and-logo combination as one image.
- Minor logo changes may be allowed; a substantially new design needs a new filing.
Word mark, logo mark or combined mark
| Word mark | Logo (device) mark | Combined mark | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protects | The name, in any font or style | The design as filed, with colours if claimed | The name and design together, as one image |
| Best for | Names customers say and search | Symbols customers recognise | Tight budgets |
| Risk if you redesign | None for the name | New design may need a new filing | Registration may no longer match |
| MoET fees per class | AED 6,500 in total | AED 6,500 in total | AED 6,500 in total |
Which to file first
- The name, usually. It's what customers say, type into search and see on marketplaces, and it survives any redesign.
- The logo first if your business trades mainly on a symbol, such as an app icon or a product badge.
- Both if both earn recognition and you plan to stay in the market for years.
Changing your logo later
The trademark law lets an owner apply to modify a registered mark, but only where the change doesn't significantly affect its substance. A light refresh may fit. A new symbol or very different layout usually needs a fresh application, ideally filed before the new logo goes public.
Common logo filing mistakes
- Filing a combined mark, then dropping the name from the logo.
- Claiming colours you later change.
- Using elements of flags, emblems or official symbols.
- Not searching for lookalike designs before filing.
We help you decide what to file first and handle the filings. See logo registration and trademark registration.
Sources
- UAE Government: Federal Decree-Law No. 36 of 2021 on trademarks
- Ministry of Economy and Tourism: trademark registration service and fees
Official sources checked on 7 November 2026. This guide explains published rules in plain English and is not legal or tax advice. Rules change; we check the current position for your case before you act.