Trademark Registration in Saudi Arabia: A Complete Guide for 2025

In the rapidly evolving business environment of Saudi Arabia, protecting your brand is more crucial than ever. Whether you're a local entrepreneur or an international investor, trademark registration ensures your business identity is legally protected and respected in the Kingdom.

This article walks you through the trademark registration process in Saudi Arabia, its benefits, legal framework, costs, and how to get started.

📌 What is a Trademark?

A trademark is a recognizable sign, logo, word, phrase, symbol, or combination thereof that distinguishes your goods or services from those of competitors. In Saudi Arabia, trademarks can be:

  • Names

  • Logos

  • Slogans

  • 3D shapes

  • Sounds or scents (under specific conditions)

⚖️ Legal Framework

Trademark registration in Saudi Arabia is governed by:

  • The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Trademark Law (adopted locally)

  • Administered by SAIP – the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property

Saudi Arabia is also a signatory to major international IP agreements such as the Paris Convention and the Madrid Protocol (joined in 2021).

✅ Why Register a Trademark in Saudi Arabia?

Here’s why trademark registration is essential:

  • 🔐 Exclusive rights to use the mark within Saudi Arabia

  • ⚖️ Legal protection against infringement and counterfeit

  • 💼 Boosts brand value and investor confidence

  • 🛫 Enables international expansion (especially via Madrid Protocol)

  • 📦 Required for some e-commerce and licensing agreements

📝 Trademark Registration Process

Here is a step-by-step overview:

1. Trademark Search

Before filing, check if your trademark is already registered using the SAIP database.

2. Prepare Required Documents

  • Trademark design/logo

  • Applicant's details (company or individual)

  • Power of attorney (notarized and legalized)

  • Priority claim document (if applicable)

3. File Application via SAIP

Submit your trademark online through the SAIP platform, paying the application fee.

4. Examination by SAIP

SAIP reviews the application for:

  • Legal compliance

  • Similarity with existing trademarks

5. Publication in the Official Gazette

If approved, the trademark is published for 60 days for public opposition.

6. Final Registration

If no opposition is filed, the trademark is registered, and a registration certificate is issued.

💰 Costs of Trademark Registration

As of 2025, approximate government fees:

  • Filing fee: SAR 1,000

  • Publication fee: SAR 1,500

  • Registration certificate: SAR 5,000
    Note: Legal and translation fees may apply separately.

📆 Duration and Renewal

  • Validity: 10 years from the filing date

  • Renewable every 10 years with a grace period of 6 months (with late fee)

🌍 Foreign Applicants

Foreign companies or individuals must:

  • Appoint a licensed trademark agent in Saudi Arabia

  • Provide a legalized Power of Attorney (PoA)

Thanks to Saudi Arabia joining the Madrid Protocol, international businesses can now register trademarks in Saudi Arabia via a single WIPO application.

⚠️ Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Using a generic or descriptive name

  • Not conducting a proper trademark search

  • Failing to renew on time

  • Not registering in Arabic (if you're marketing locally)

🛡️ Enforcing Trademark Rights

If your trademark is infringed:

  • File a complaint with SAIP

  • Take legal action through Saudi courts

  • Request customs seizure of counterfeit goods

✍️ Final Thoughts

Securing a trademark in Saudi Arabia is a vital step in protecting your brand and establishing a long-term presence in the Kingdom. With economic diversification under Vision 2030 and a growing IP-friendly environment, now is the perfect time to invest in your brand’s legal foundation.

If you need help with trademark search, filing, or legal guidance, it's advisable to consult a licensed IP agent or law firm in Saudi Arabia.


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