Table of Contents
Introduction
Copyright is an essential tool to protect your creative work. But how do you ensure your rights are safeguarded in a country like the UAE?
In this guide, we’ll break down the process of copyright registration in UAE, including Dubai, step-by-step. Let’s dive into everything you need to know.
What is Copyright?
Have you ever created a story, a song, or even a logo and wondered how to ensure no one else claims it as their own? That’s where copyright comes in. Copyright is a legal right given to creators for their original works, providing them with protection against unauthorized use.
Under UAE Copyright Law (Federal Decree-Law No. (38) of 2021 on Copyrights and Neighbouring Rights), creators hold exclusive rights over their work, including the right to reproduce, distribute, and display their creations. This law ensures your hard work and creativity are legally protected.
What Works are Registered Under Copyright in UAE?
The UAE is committed to supporting creative individuals by offering copyright protection for various types of works. According to Article 2 of the UAE Copyright Law, the following works enjoy protection:
Additionally, the copyright protection covers innovative titles and written innovative broadcast programs. Do you see your creative work listed here? If yes, it’s eligible for copyright protection in the UAE.
What Works Are Not Registered Under UAE Copyright Law?
It’s equally important to know what cannot be copyrighted. According to Article 3 of the UAE Copyright Law, protection does not extend to:
1. Ideas and Concepts: Procedures, methods, mathematical concepts, and principles unless expressed innovatively.
2. Official Documents: Laws, regulations, judicial rulings, international agreements, and similar documents.
3. News and Reports: Purely informative news and reports on current events.
4. Public Domain Works: Unless the effort in compiling or arranging these works is innovative.
So, if you’re thinking about copyrighting an idea or a government circular, it’s not possible under UAE laws.
Steps to Register Copyright in UAE
Registering your copyright is a detailed but manageable process under the Copyright Law. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: The Copyrights Register
The register contains details about rights, the work itself, and the author. This includes exclusive rights, their scope, duration, and purpose.
Step 2: Application Guidelines
- Each application may only cover one type of work.
- Applications must classify works based on their nature for registration. purposes. Authors, rights holders, or successors can apply for registration.
Step 3: Copyright Registration Process ( Online)
1. Online Submission:
Applications are submitted online via the Ministry of Economy’s website: www.economy.ae.
Under the Ministry of Economy’s e-Services section, select Intellectual Work Services. These services facilitate copyright registration for individual or corporate authors, as well as complaints related to copyright infringement.
Click on the Intellectual Works Rights Registration Service button to proceed.
2. Choose the service from the list of eServices.
- Sign in with UAE PASS.
- Fill in the application data and attach the required documents.
- Pay the registration fee (AED 50 for individuals, AED 200 for companies).
3. Application Review:
The Ministry audits and reviews the application. If the request fulfills all conditions, an updated registration certificate will be issued.
4. Grievances:
If an application is rejected, grievances may be filed within 30 days of the decision.
5. Registration Certificate:
The certificate confirms registration but is not a usage permit. Additional licenses may be required depending on the nature of the work.
Service Fees to Register Copyright in the UAE
1. For Individuals: AED 50 per author.
2. For Companies and Institutions: AED 200 per company or institution.
Who is Eligible for Copyright Registration in UAE
The application for copyright Regsitration in Dubai, UAE can be filed by the following persons:
- The author,
- Rights holder, or
- Any of their successors
- Their agent with duly notarized documents (POA)
Required Documents
1) For Individuals:
- A copy of the author’s Emirates ID (both sides).
- A letter of authorization to register, if applying on behalf of a group of authors.
2) For Companies and Government Entities:
- A letter of authorization to register.
- A power of attorney for the author or company representative.
FAQs About Copyright Registration in UAE
No, copyright protection is automatic once your work is created. However, registration strengthens your legal claim in case of disputes.
Copyright typically lasts for the lifetime of the author plus 50 years after their death.
Yes, works created outside the UAE can be registered as long as they meet the requirements under UAE Copyright Law.
You can file a complaint with the Ministry of Economy or take legal action through UAE courts.
Yes, unpublished works are also eligible for copyright registration in the UAE.
Conclusion: Why Copyright Registration Matters
Copyright registration in the UAE, including Dubai, is a crucial step for protecting your creative works. Whether you’re an artist, writer, or software developer, safeguarding your intellectual property ensures your rights remain protected.
