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Overview on Patent & Design Updates from Saudi Arabia

Published on : 15 May 2024
Author(s):Several

Patent & Design Updates from Saudi Arabia

In a bid to bolster its intellectual property landscape and enhance its position in the global innovation ecosystem, Saudi Arabia has taken significant strides by implementing crucial amendments to its Patent and Design Laws. The recent developments, including joining international initiatives such as the Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) pilot program and hosting a diplomatic conference for the Design Law Treaty, underscore the Kingdom's commitment to foster innovation and protect intellectual property rights.

The Saudi Intellectual Property Authority (SAIP) has officially joined forces with the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS) in the Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) pilot program. This collaboration aims to streamline the patent prosecution process and reduce examination backlogs by allowing expedited examination of corresponding patent claims. Under the program, applicants can leverage positive rulings from either SAIP or IPOS to accelerate the examination process in the other jurisdiction. Furthermore, the program facilitates the reuse of examination work completed by participating intellectual property offices, enhancing efficiency and reducing duplication of efforts. Saudi Arabia's participation in the PPH program marks a significant milestone in its efforts to modernize intellectual property practices and align with global standards for patent examination and protection.

Amendments to the Patent and Design Laws

In line with its commitment to enhancing intellectual property protection, Saudi Arabia has enacted amendments to its Patent and Design Laws, which came into effect on October 3, 2023. The key modifications bring about notable changes to the scope of intellectual property protection and procedural requirements, including:

International Design Applications

The amended laws allow for protection based on international design applications, enabling applicants to benefit from the provisions of the Hague Agreement. This amendment enhances the accessibility of design protection for both domestic and international applicants, fostering greater innovation and creativity.

Extension of Design Protection Period

The duration of design protection has been extended to 15 years, providing rights holders with an extended period to capitalize on their intellectual property assets. This change aligns Saudi Arabia's design protection framework with international standards, offering enhanced protection and incentivizing investment in design innovation.

Revised Fee Structure

The amendments introduce a revised fee structure, requiring annual fees to be paid at the beginning of each year for most applications. However, for international industrial model applications submitted under the Hague Agreement, fees are payable every five years. This adjustment aims to streamline fee payments and ensure greater clarity and consistency in the application process.

Expansion of Hague Agreement Applicability

The amendments expand the applicability of the Hague Agreement to applications for the international registration of industrial designs. This expansion enhances the efficiency of the design registration process and facilitates international protection for industrial designs originating from Saudi Arabia.

Hosting the Design Law Treaty Diplomatic Conference

Saudi Arabia has been selected as the host country for a diplomatic conference scheduled from November 11 to November 22, 2024, related to the Design Law Treaty. The conference aims to harmonize registration procedures for industrial designs, further strengthening international cooperation in the field of intellectual property rights. By hosting this prestigious event, Saudi Arabia reaffirms its commitment to advancing intellectual property protection on a global scale and playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of design law.

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia's recent initiatives to modernize its intellectual property laws and enhance cooperation with international partners underscore its dedication to fostering innovation and protecting intellectual property rights. By joining the Patent Prosecution Highway pilot program, enacting amendments to its Patent and Design Laws, and hosting the upcoming Design Law Treaty diplomatic conference, Saudi Arabia demonstrates its readiness to embrace global best practices and contribute to the advancement of intellectual property rights protection worldwide. These developments position the Kingdom as a leading advocate for innovation and creativity in the region and beyond, fostering an environment conducive to sustained economic growth and technological advancement.

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