UAE Launching GI Tag System to Protect Local Products

The UAE has launched a Geographical Indications (GI) system to protect and promote local products genuinely produced in the UAE. A GI enables an origin product to be legally recognized as embodying characteristics and quality derived from the specific region of origin and representing an aspect of location-rooted traditions or cultural heritage.

The Minister of Economy has included GI in the national trademark law. GI helps protect against counterfeit products and gives consumers the confidence to recognize UAE-made products as original.

In the first phase, one of four local products has been granted GI:

• Hatta Honey – is of high quality and is produced by a diverse mountainous climate and specific traditional process methods.
• Ras Al Khaimah Ceramics –  Its craftsmanship and the value of the export of the product have brought it considerable renown.
• Dabbas dates from Al Dhafra – For following the naturally farmed methods and the strong local identity reflected in the product.
• Traditional palm frond crafts – showcasing family-made items reflecting the UAE’s cultural heritage.

More than 25 other products are currently being assessed. The GI registration process is now open to production by national as well as international producers.  

This is part of the UAE’s broader economic diversification and sustainability plan under the “We the UAE 2031” vision, and also helps the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals through safeguarding heritage, stimulating local production, and creating job opportunities.