What marks cannot be registered as a trademark in the UAE?

UAE law sets out categories of marks that cannot be registered as trademarks. Broadly, these include marks that lack distinctiveness (generic or purely descriptive terms that just describe the product), marks identical or confusingly similar to earlier registered or well-known marks, and marks that would mislead the public about the nature, origin or quality of the goods. The federal trademark law (Federal Decree-Law No. 36 of 2021) also bars marks that conflict with public order or morals, and signs that are protected from commercial use — such as national flags, official emblems, symbols of the UAE or other states, and emblems of international organisations — unless duly authorised. Marks touching on religious symbols or that could offend public sensibilities are also typically refused. Because "distinctiveness" is judged case by case, a name that feels strong to you may still be rejected as too descriptive, which is why a clearance search and legal review before filing saves time and cost. The Ministry of Economy applies these rules during examination. A UAE trademark professional on LEXAI can assess whether your proposed mark is registrable.