ABU DHABI – The UAE Trademark Office has officially lifted its longstanding restrictions on Class 33 and is now accepting trademark applications for alcoholic beverages.
Previously, under local policy, Class 33 was unavailable for registration in the UAE. Brand owners operating in the wines and spirits sectors had to rely on alternative protection strategies, most commonly, filing under Class 32 (non-alcoholic beverages) or Class 43 (bar/nightclub services). This long-awaited shift aligns national filing practices with the international Nice Classification system.
Notably, following the UAE’s accession to the Madrid Protocol, our firm officially approached the Trademark Office to formally request the opening of Class 33. While the policy transition required time to mature, the official acceptance of Class 33 applications is now a reality.
KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR BRAND OWNERS
- Direct Protection: Applicants can now file directly under Class 33 to protect alcoholic beverage trademarks. Beer, however, remains under Class 32 but can now also be registered explicitly as an alcoholic product.
- Portfolio Strategy: While existing Class 32 registrations remain valid and provide valuable prior rights, brand owners should consider refiling their flagship or commercial marks under Class 33 to ensure stronger coverage.
- Regulatory Distinction: Securing a trademark registration protects the brand identity. However, it does not replace or bypass the necessary regulatory and licensing requirements needed to import, distribute, or sell alcohol within the UAE.
Trademark owners are advised to review their portfolios and consider filing applications in newly available classes where relevant. We also recommend implementing watch services, as increased filing activity—particularly in Class 33—is expected following this development.
For portfolio reviews or to initiate your Class 33 filings, contact our International Desk at info@qumsieh.com.