Qatar joins the Madrid Protocol

Qatar will become the 115th member of the Madrid system when the Madrid Protocol enters into force on 3 August 2024. 

Qatar joins Bahrain, Oman and the United Arab Emirates, meaning four of the six Gulf countries are members of the Protocol. 

The Madrid system continues to grow and this is a welcome addition, allowing the expansion of trade mark portfolios into additional territories to become more streamlined and cost effective for both those based in Qatar and those from elsewhere who seek protection there. 

The Madrid system offers a convenient route for parties to apply for trade mark protection in up to 130 territories (including Qatar) by filing a single international application with the national or regional IP office of a Madrid Union member.   

From 3 August 2024, local brand owners in Qatar will be able to start using the Madrid system to protect their trade marks in the other territories covered.  This also means that foreign businesses and individuals can seek trade mark protection in Qatar through the Madrid system, providing an additional route to protection. While each territory designated is still subject to examination in each national office, as with a national application, the filing of a single application to cover multiple territories, and the ongoing maintenance and renewal of the resulting international registration, can lead to a cost effective and administratively straight-forward addition to a trade mark portfolio. 

The continued expansion of the Madrid system ensures it remains an attractive route to trade mark protection. If you want to discuss trade mark protection please do get in touch!