Copyright Registration

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Copyright refers to the exclusive legal rights granted to the creator of an original work, allowing them to reproduce, distribute, or publicly perform their creation. In simple terms, copyright provides the right to copy or reproduce creative works. Copyright registration in the UAE provides creators with legal protection, allowing them to control the use of their work for a limited period.

What Types of Intellectual Property Can Be Registered Under Copyright in the UAE?

Under UAE law, any creative work that is literary, artistic, educational, or musical is eligible for copyright protection. The UAE’s Federal Law No. 7 of 2002 concerning Copyright and Neighboring Rights safeguards the rights of authors and creators. The following works can be registered for copyright protection:

Literary Works: Articles, stories, books, and other written works
Software & Programs: Computer applications, software, programs, databases, and related intellectual works
Speech & Lectures: Speeches, lessons, and other educational content
Performing Arts: Music shows, albums, theatre works, and dramas
Music: Music notes, compositions, melodies, and lyrics
Audiovisual Works: Movies, TV shows, and videos
Architectural Designs: Engineering layouts, sketches, drawings, designs
Fine Arts: Paintings, sculptures, and other forms of visual art
Photography & Film: Photography and film-related works
Other Artistic Works: Drawings, engravings, lithographs, textiles, and other visual arts

The primary goal of copyright law is to protect the time, effort, and creativity invested by the original creator. Artists and creators in the UAE are encouraged to register their work to protect their intellectual property and preserve their career and reputation.

However, copyright protection does not extend to:

Ideas and Concepts: Scientific principles, mathematical methods, and general procedures
Legal Documents: Texts of laws, regulations, or court decisions
Public Domain Works: News, events, or facts unless they are arranged or compiled in a unique and original way

What Works Can Be Registered Under UAE Copyright Law?

To be eligible for copyright registration in the UAE, a work must meet the following criteria:

Originality: The work must be an original creation, not plagiarized.
Tangible Form: The work must be recorded or fixed in a tangible form, such as a manuscript, recording, or drawing.

Works That Cannot Be Copyrighted in the UAE

The following cannot be copyrighted:

Facts and Principles: Basic facts, scientific principles, mathematical concepts, and abstract ideas
Legal Texts: Laws, regulations, and legal decisions
News and Current Events: News items and facts that are part of the public domain, unless creatively compiled or arranged

Rights of Creators Under UAE Copyright Law

UAE copyright law grants creators both moral and economic rights over their works. These rights protect the creator’s personal and financial interests, ensuring they are compensated and credited for their work. The rights granted include:

Right to First Publication: The right to decide when and how to publish the work
Right to Attribution: The right to be credited as the creator of the work
Right to Integrity: The right to prevent alterations or distortions of their work
Right to Withdraw or Restrict Distribution: The right to prevent further distribution of the work if necessary
Performers’ Rights: The right for performers to be recognized for their performances, whether live or recorded
Right to Reproduction: The right to reproduce the work in all forms, including copying, recording, or adapting
Right to Broadcast and Distribution: The right to control how the work is broadcasted or distributed through various channels

Under UAE law, copyright protection extends for 50 years after the death of the creator. If the work is published posthumously, copyright protection is valid for 50 years from the date of publication.

Who Can Benefit From UAE Copyright Law?

Media Companies and Agencies
Production Companies
Software Companies

Artistic Organizations: Including music academies, performance groups, and cultural institutions

Need Help with Copyright Registration in the UAE?

The UAE has seen significant growth in its art and media sectors in recent years. The country is promoting cultural heritage through live concerts, exhibitions, music festivals, and other artistic events. For individuals and companies involved in the creative industries, registering a copyright in the UAE is essential to protect their work from unauthorized use or infringement.

Growth Partners offers expert copyright registration services in Dubai and the UAE. If you’re unsure about the process or the legalities involved in copyrighting your work, our team of trademark and copyright registration agents can guide you through every step. Whether you’re looking to register your copyright or need assistance with filing a case against infringement, we can help ensure your creative work is well-protected in the UAE.

Contact JIP today for expert assistance with copyright registration and protection in the UAE.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about company formation in the United Arab Emirates

In the United Arab Emirates, you can establish entities like Limited Liability Companies (LLC), Free Zone Entities, Sole Proprietorships, and Branches of Foreign Companies.

The company formation process in the UAE can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the type of company and the specific requirements involved.

The United Arab Emirates offers a tax-free environment for most businesses, with no personal or corporate income tax, provided the company qualifies for Free Zone status.

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