This article provides an in-depth overview of the UAE copyright law, covering its framework, provisions, and protections for authors, performers, and holders of neighbouring rights.
Additionally, we will highlight our law firm’s legal services to help individuals and organizations navigate the complex world of copyright protection in the UAE in 2025.
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Table of Contents
UAE Copyright Law Protection and Rights
The UAE copyrights are primarily governed by the Federal Decree-Law No. (38) of 2021 on Copyrights and Neighbouring Rights, issued on 20th September 2021.
This law regulates the protection of creative works and defines the rights of authors, performers, and other stakeholders in the creative industries.
It offers a robust legal framework to protect intellectual property within the UAE.
Types of Works Under Protection
The law provides protection for a wide range of creative works, including:
- Books and Written Works: This includes articles, brochures, and any other written material.
- Smart Applications and Computer Programs: Protection extends to software, applications, and databases, ensuring that creators are safeguarded in the digital space.
- Theatrical and Musical Works: Including performances, pantomimes, and musical compositions, whether with or without lyrics.
- Visual and Audio Works: Protection extends to photographs, audio-visual productions, and sound recordings.
- Architectural and Artistic Works: This includes buildings, sculptures, and designs related to geography and topography.
For example, if a software developer creates a mobile application or a database, their work is protected under this law.
Similarly, a photographer who captures a new image would also have copyright protection for their work.
Exclusions from Protection
Certain works are excluded from copyright protection under Article 3 of the UAE copyright law. These include:
- Ideas and Procedures: For example, the law does not protect abstract concepts or mathematical methods, but it does protect the innovative expression of such ideas.
- Official Documents: Laws, regulations, and judicial rulings are excluded, although the compilation or arrangement of such materials may be protected if innovative.
- News Reports: Purely informational news reports and updates on current events are not protected unless the manner of reporting is innovative.
For instance, a report on a political event wouldn’t be protected, but the way it’s written or presented might be if it involves creative expression.
Moral Rights and Economic Rights
Under Article 5, the law grants authors moral rights that are perpetual and cannot be assigned or transferred. These rights include:
- The right to claim authorship of the work.
- The right to prevent any distortion or modification that could harm the author’s reputation.
- The right to withdraw the work from circulation in certain cases.
Authors also retain economic rights, allowing them to control the use of their works and receive compensation when these works are reproduced or distributed.
For example, if an author licenses their book for translation into another language, they are entitled to royalties from the sales of the translated version.
Duration of Protection
The copyright law provides long-lasting protection for works:
- The author’s economic rights last for the duration of their lifetime and 50 years thereafter.
- Performers’ rights are protected for 50 years from the date of performance.
- Producers of phonograms also enjoy protection for 50 years from the publication date.
This ensures that creators and their successors continue to benefit from the use of their works long after their creation.
Registration of Works
While registration of a work is not mandatory for protection, it can help in proving ownership.
Article 4 of the law outlines the process for registering works with the Ministry, and this registration serves as a reference for ownership and rights related to the work.
Moreover, the Cabinet Decision No. 47/2022 provides additional regulations for the registration process, including detailed requirements such as submitting the title, description, language, and ownership details.
The Ministry also ensures that the work complies with the law and is not among those excluded from protection.
Compulsory Licensing
The law includes provisions for compulsory licenses, allowing certain parties to use copyrighted works without the permission of the copyright holder under specific conditions.
For example, educational institutions may apply for a compulsory license to reproduce works for teaching purposes, especially when a work is not available in the market.
To learn about the Dubai International Financial Center free zone regulations, read about the DIFC IP Law Brief and Services.
Legal Services Related to Copyrights in UAE& L
At our law firm in UAE, we specialize in offering comprehensive legal services related to UAE copyright law.
Our experienced legal team is equipped to assist clients with all aspects of copyright protection, enforcement, and registration.
Below are some of the key services we provide:
Copyright Registration
We assist authors, creators, and organizations in registering their works with the Ministry of Culture and Youth.
This includes filing applications, submitting necessary documentation, and ensuring compliance with the law’s requirements.
Our legal team can guide clients through the registration process to safeguard their intellectual property.
Enforcement of Copyrights
We offer copyright enforcement services, helping our clients protect their creative works from infringement.
If someone uses your work without permission, we can assist in sending cease-and-desist letters, filing lawsuits, and seeking compensation for unauthorized use.
Our team is well-versed in handling cases related to the infringement of both moral and economic rights.
Licensing and Contracts
We help clients license their works, whether for reproduction, distribution, or public performance.
Our team drafts and negotiates licensing agreements, ensuring that our clients’ rights are clearly defined and receive fair compensation.
We also provide advice on the transfer of rights, ensuring that any assignment of rights is legally sound.
Legal Advice on Copyright Issues
Our firm provides legal counsel to individuals and businesses on various copyright matters, such as disputes over ownership, infringement, and the scope of copyright protection.
Whether you’re facing a specific copyright issue or need advice on how to protect your work, we offer expert legal guidance tailored to your needs.
Dispute Resolution and Litigation
We provide litigation services in the event of a copyright dispute. Our team represents clients in court proceedings, seeking to resolve conflicts and enforce copyright protections.
We provide skilled representation whether you’re involved in a contractual dispute, infringement case, or seeking compensation for unauthorized use.
Find more services from top Intellectual Property Law Firms in Dubai.
FAQs about Copyright Regulation in UAE
UAE copyright law is a comprehensive framework that offers robust protection for a wide range of creative works, ensuring that authors and creators can control the use of their intellectual property.
With the law’s provisions for both moral and economic rights, it safeguards the interests of creators and provides mechanisms for enforcement and dispute resolution.
Our law firm offers specialized services to help individuals and businesses navigate this legal landscape, ensuring their works are properly protected and their rights are enforced.
Contact our law firm in UAE for expert help. Click the Whatsapp icon below.
A law graduate and legal writer focusing on UAE law, he became known for his ability to clarify complex legal concepts through his writings. His work simplifies the intricacies of the legal landscape in the Emirates, helping both locals and expatriates navigate their legal concerns.
