The United Arab Emirates has enacted Federal Law No. 8 of 2025 on the Protection of New Plant Varieties, introducing a comprehensive update to the country’s agricultural intellectual property framework. The new law strengthens breeders’ rights and aligns the UAE with international standards governing plant variety protection.
The legislation replaces Federal Law No. 17 of 2009 and reflects the UAE’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and food security through enhanced IP protection.
Alignment With International Standards
The new law brings the UAE framework in line with the standards of theInternational Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV), which governs global best practices for plant breeders’ rights.
By adopting internationally recognized protection principles, the UAE strengthens its position as a jurisdiction that supports agricultural innovation and cross-border investment in plant breeding and biotechnology.
Expanded Scope of Protection for Plant Varieties
The updated legislation expands protection to cover a broader range of plant genera and species, encouraging the development of new, resilient, and commercially valuable crop varieties.
Under the new law:
- Most plant varieties are protected for 20 years from the date of grant
- Vines and trees benefit from extended protection of 25 years
This extended protection period provides long-term certainty for breeders investing in research and development.
Eligibility Criteria: DUS Requirements
To qualify for protection under the new regime, plant varieties must meet the internationally recognized DUS criteria:
- New
- Distinct
- Uniform
- Stable
These requirements ensure that only genuinely innovative and reproducible plant varieties receive statutory protection.
Establishment of a New Plant Varieties Register
The law establishes a Register for New Plant Varieties under the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE).
The register will oversee:
- Applications for plant variety protection
- Recording of breeders’ rights
- Administration and management of protected varieties
This centralized system enhances transparency and regulatory oversight.
Strengthened Enforcement and Penalties
Federal Law No. 8 of 2025 introduces enhanced enforcement measures to deter infringement and misuse of protected plant varieties.
Penalties may include:
- Imprisonment of up to three years
- Fines of up to AED 250,000
These sanctions underline the UAE’s commitment to safeguarding agricultural innovation and intellectual property rights.
Strategic Importance for Food Security and Innovation
The new plant variety protection law supports the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy 2051, encouraging sustainable agriculture and innovation-driven food production.
By strengthening breeders’ rights and aligning with global IP standards, the law promotes:
- Agricultural research and development
- Investment in plant biotechnology
- Long-term food security and environmental resilience
How Abou Naja Intellectual Property Can Assist
Abou Naja Intellectual Property advises breeders, agribusinesses, and innovators on:
- Plant variety protection in the UAE
- Compliance with DUS requirements
- Registration before MOCCAE
- IP strategy aligned with agricultural and food security objectives
For professional guidance, contact our IP specialists at [email protected]