The United Arab Emirates has introduced a new Plant Varieties Law, replacing Federal Law No. 17 of 2009, to strengthen breeders’ rights, enhance plant variety protection in the UAE, and support national food security objectives.
The updated legislation aligns the UAE framework with the standards of the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV), reinforcing the country’s commitment to international best practices in agricultural intellectual property protection.
This development marks a significant step in advancing UAE agricultural IP law and encouraging innovation in plant breeding.
Key Features of the UAE Plant Varieties Law
- National Register for Plant Variety Protection
The new law establishes a national register for plant varieties in the UAE. Protection will be granted to plant varieties that meet internationally recognized criteria of being:
- New
- Distinct
- Uniform
- Stable
This framework ensures that plant breeders can secure exclusive legal rights over qualifying varieties, encouraging both domestic and foreign investment in agricultural research and development.
- Duration of Plant Breeders’ Rights in the UAE
Under the new law, protection will be granted for a period of:
- 20 years for most plant varieties
- Up to 25 years for certain categories (as specified by implementing regulations)
This extended protection period provides long-term commercial certainty for rights holders and aligns the UAE regime with UPOV standards.
- Stronger Enforcement and Penalties
The legislation introduces robust enforcement mechanisms to deter infringement of protected plant varieties.
- Fines of up to AED 250,000
- Potential imprisonment
- Seizure and destruction of infringing materials
These enhanced sanctions significantly strengthen the UAE’s legal framework for plant variety protection and demonstrate the government’s commitment to safeguarding agricultural innovation.
Why This Matters: Impact on Innovation and Food Security
- Promote innovation in plant breeding
- Encourage international agricultural investment
- Facilitate access to improved crop varieties
- Support sustainable agriculture initiatives
- Enhance long-term food security in the UAE
By aligning with UPOV standards, the UAE strengthens its position as a regional hub for agricultural development and intellectual property protection.
Conclusion
The replacement of Federal Law No. 17 of 2009 represents a major advancement in UAE plant variety protection law. By enhancing breeders’ rights and strengthening enforcement measures, the UAE continues to modernize its intellectual property regime in line with global standards.
For further information or assistance regarding plant breeders’ rights, agricultural IP protection, or regulatory compliance in the UAE, please contact us at info@legacypartners.global.
