The International Trademark Association (INTA) has announced the launch of its new Middle East and North Africa (MENA) regional office in Dubai, marking a major step in strengthening intellectual property (IP) efforts across the region.
The announcement was made during INTA’s Annual Meeting in San Diego, with the Dubai office set to begin operations in the second half of 2025.
This strategic move reflects INTA’s growing commitment to the region, aimed at fostering deeper collaboration with local and regional partners, expanding outreach and training, and supporting governments in policy development. The new office is also expected to play a central role in anti-counterfeiting initiatives and stakeholder capacity building.
Etienne Sanz de Acedo, CEO of INTA, highlighted the office as a response to rising membership and regional growth, noting the organization's dedication to enhancing trademark protection efforts through on-the-ground presence and active engagement.
Major General Dr. Abdul Quddus Abdulrazzaq Al Obaidli, Chairman of the Emirates Intellectual Property Association (EIPA), welcomed the announcement, calling it a strategic opportunity to align national and international efforts in protecting commercial rights. He praised Dubai’s role as an innovation hub and global leader in IP legislation.
Echoing this sentiment, Hoda Barakat, Board Member of both INTA and EIPA, described the move as transformative, saying it will elevate regional dialogue and bring international expertise closer to stakeholders.
The EIPA reaffirmed its full support for the initiative, emphasizing its commitment to promoting a secure, innovation-driven IP ecosystem throughout the MENA region.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
