The Ministry of Culture organized an introductory workshop on the National Project for the Protection of Geographically Indicated Products, in cooperation with the Ministry of Economy and Tourism and the World Intellectual Property Organization, with the participation of a number of entities supporting artisans and entrepreneurs.
This workshop is part of the efforts of the United Arab Emirates to protect cultural heritage and enhance the economic value of national products by registering them in approved geographical indications, which contributes to preserving their authenticity, protecting them legally, and distinguishing them in local and international markets.
A Geographically Indicated National Product (Geographical Indication) is a sign used for products that have a reputation, quality, or unique characteristics that are essentially due to their specific geographical origin. This system represents an important legal and economic tool for protecting the original identity of local products, enhancing their marketing value locally and internationally. Among the most prominent of these products in the UAE are Hatta honey, Dabas dates from Al Dhafra, Ras Al Khaimah ceramics, and weaving.
The Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Mubarak Al Naqbi, said: "The National Project for the Protection of Geographically Indicated Products marks a key milestone in the UAE's efforts to build a creative economy based on cultural identity. This project is not limited to protecting products but establishes a comprehensive framework that highlights the uniqueness of each region in the country, and supports artisans and producers through a legislative and executive system that ensures they benefit the most from intellectual property rights and enhances their opportunities to access local and international markets."
The Assistant Under-Secretary for Intellectual Property in the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, Dr. Abdul Rahman Al Meaini, confirmed that the ministry is keen to enhance the added value of national geographical indications, having launched the registration system for the "Geographically Indicated National Product," which constituted a key milestone in developing the intellectual property system in the UAE by establishing a comprehensive national framework to protect products linked to their geographical origin, preserving their authentic identity, and raising awareness of the national product, which enhances its economic value and supports its presence in regional and international markets.
The workshop reviewed the objectives of the national project, its role in raising awareness of the importance of protecting national products, and enhancing their utilization as cultural and economic assets capable of supporting national value chains, providing new opportunities for producers and artisans, and opening broader horizons for marketing and export, which positively reflects on the country's creative economy.
The workshop also shed light on best international practices in the field of geographical indications, mechanisms for product registration, and legislation for their protection, in addition to presenting successful models from different countries and explaining how to apply these experiences in the Emirati environment.
