Gulf BPG Attends “Making a Living from Music” Workshop
2025-04-23 | Cinema Akil, Alserkal Avenue, Dubai
In collaboration with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), the UAE Ministry of Economy organized a workshop titled “Making a Living from Music” in line with the World IP Day celebration.
The workshop aimed to empower musicians, songwriters, and performers by providing practical insights into copyright and rights management, helping them transform their creativity into sustainable income. Participants learned how to manage their intellectual property, identify income streams, and maximize the value of their artistic work in the digital age.
Gulf BPG was pleased to attend this initiative, reinforcing its commitment to supporting creative industries and promoting intellectual property awareness across diverse sectors.

Fashion Law Conference in Kuwait
2025-04-28 | Four Seasons Hotel, Kuwait.
Gulf BPG represented by board member Rima El Achkar participated as a speaker in the first-ever Fashion Law Conference, organized by Advocates Group Academy in collaboration with YFLG – Al-Yaqout & Al-Fouzan Legal Group and LexisNexis Middle East. She highlighted strategic best practices to combat counterfeiting and protect international fashion brands in the region.
The event brought together legal experts, designers, and policymakers to address key challenges in the fashion industry, including intellectual property, licensing, and commercial enforcement.
Aimed at shaping a unified Fashion Law for GCC countries, the conference marked a pioneering step toward building legal structures that protect innovation, support industry growth, and ensure fair competition in the Gulf.

Gulf BPG Participates in World IP Day activities organized by EIPA
2025-04-28 | Dubai Chamber
Gulf BPG, represented by Board Member Bassel El Turk, participated in an event organized by the Emirates Intellectual Property Association (EIPA) in collaboration with its partners to celebrate World IP Day.
The dialogue session, titled “Intellectual Property and Innovation in the Age of Modern Technology: Towards an Urban Environment that Celebrates Creativity and Protects Creators”, focused on the role of intellectual property in fostering technological innovation and safeguarding the rights of creators within a dynamic urban environment.
Bassel highlighted how modern technology has revolutionized music creation, distribution, and consumption, empowering artists to reach global audiences instantly. However, he emphasized that this digital transformation also brings new challenges—particularly in protecting creators’ rights amidst online piracy, unauthorized streaming, and the use of AI-generated content.
He stressed the importance of strong IP frameworks and collaborative efforts among artists, policymakers, and enforcement authorities to build an urban ecosystem that values creativity, respects originality, and ensures fair compensation for creators.

Gulf BPG conducts a F2F session for Dubai Customs inspectors – World IP Day
2025-04-29 | Dubai Customs Headquarters
In line with the World IP Day celebrations and in cooperation with Dubai Customs, Gulf BPG conducted an in-person training session for Dubai Customs inspectors, emphasizing the importance of trademark protection and the vital role customs authorities play in enforcing it.
Several brands participated in the session, delivering authentication training on their products to enhance inspectors’ ability to identify and prevent counterfeit goods.
Brands: Kenvue, Eli Lilly, Mobis, Lacoste, JTI and Gant.

Gulf BPG Sponsors and Participates in the 2025 IP Moot Court Project
2025-04-29 | School of Modern Skills – Muhaisnah, Dubai.
Under the patronage of the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, Gulf BPG sponsored this year’s IP Moot Court Project, organized by Saint Joseph University (USJ) Dubai through its Engagement and Outreach Committee, and co-sponsored by OBWB, a valued member of Gulf BPG.
This initiative offers high school students a practical courtroom experience, allowing them to assume roles such as lawyers, judges, and parties, while developing essential skills in critical thinking, argumentation, and public speaking.
The first session took place at the School of Modern Skills, where the USJ – Dubai team and the Gulf BPG team focused on brand protection and consumer rights, helping students understand the vital role of intellectual property in fostering innovation and creativity.
The session featured the participation of Ms. Sara Dahmani, Intellectual Property Consultant at the French Embassy. It was led by USJ Law students with the support of Gulf BPG board members, including Motasem AG, General Manager, Middle East Region IP Practice & Global Manager, Trademark Practice at Osha BWB IP, and Hamad Abdallah, Senior Legal Consultant, Head of Dispute Resolution – ME at Rouse & Co. International.
Together, the project aims to inspire youth, promote legal awareness, and cultivate a generation that values and protects intellectual property.

Gulf BPG at the Centenary Forum on IP Law in Lebanon
2025-04-30 | The Lawyer’s House – Grand Auditorium in Beirut
Gulf BPG, represented by Chairman Malek Hannouf, participated in “The Centenary Forum on the IP Law in Lebanon” held in Beirut.
The forum, organized under the theme “100 Years of Intellectual Property Law in Lebanon: Past, Present, and Future,” celebrated a century of IP legislation and its role in shaping Lebanon’s innovation and creative economy.
Malek Hannouf delivered an insightful presentation on Intellectual Property in the Digital Age and Artificial Intelligence, exploring how emerging technologies are reshaping the way IP is created, protected, and enforced. He emphasized the growing challenges and opportunities that AI brings to brand protection, creativity, and ownership rights.
He also shared Gulf BPG’s regional experience in advancing IP enforcement, promoting collaboration between authorities and brand owners, and fostering awareness about IP rights in a technology-driven world.
The event gathered prominent IP professionals, government officials, and legal experts to discuss the evolution of IP law and its future direction in supporting innovation, digital transformation, and economic growth in Lebanon and beyond.

Gulf BPG Awarded at Abu Dhabi Customs "Partners Forum 2025"
2025-04-30 | The Lawyer’s House – Grand Auditorium in Beirut
Gulf BPG, represented by Chairman Malek Hannouf, has been honored by Abu Dhabi Customs during their Partners Forum 2025 held under the theme “Our Journey to the Future”.
As part of the ceremony, our Chairman, Mr. Malek Hannouf, was featured in an exclusive video interview, spotlighting Gulf BPG’s contributions to strengthening intellectual property (IP) protection in the UAE. Malek stated: “Abu Dhabi Customs is a strategic partner that plays a leading role in brand protection and the recycling of counterfeit materials.”
This recognition reflects the strong and evolving partnership between Gulf BPG and Abu Dhabi Customs, and we look forward to working even more closely to advance shared goals in IP protection, capacity-building, and innovation.
Interview link:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGH-H7sBijm/?igsh=OWIwMnd0a2p2MHFo

Three Days in a Row: The IP Moot Court Series in Action!
2025-05-06 - 2025-05-08 | Dubai International Private School, School of Research Science, Al-Mawakeb School, Al-Khawanij
In line with the UAE Year of Community and as part of its ongoing commitment to intellectual property awareness and youth engagement, Gulf BPG proudly continued its IP Moot Court Initiative across three consecutive days, reaching students at Dubai International Private School, School of Research Science, and Al-Mawakeb School – Al-Khawanij.
The initiative is sponsored by Gulf BPG through Saint Joseph University (USJ) Dubai, and delivered in cooperation with its strategic partners, reinforcing a shared vision to empower the next generation with practical knowledge of intellectual property rights and legal reasoning.
Each session provided students with a unique opportunity to explore IP concepts through an interactive moot court format, encouraging critical thinking, teamwork, advocacy skills, and creative problem-solving. The high level of student engagement, curiosity, and originality witnessed throughout the three days was truly remarkable, reflecting both the initiative’s effectiveness and the enthusiasm of young minds when exposed to real-world legal scenarios.
The strong participation and thoughtful contributions from students highlighted the importance of early IP education and demonstrated how academic institutions, industry partners, and professional organizations can collaboratively foster awareness, innovation, and legal literacy within school communities.
Gulf BPG remains committed to expanding this initiative and strengthening its impact, in alignment with national priorities that place community development, education, and youth empowerment at the forefront.

Gulf BPG attends the launch of “ National Products as Geographical Indications “ by the MoET IP Sector
2025-05-08 00:00 - 23:59 (Asia/Dubai) | Address Sky View – Dubai
Under the patronage of HE Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and in the presence of HE Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan, Deputy Chief of Police in Dubai, and HE Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy & Tourism. The Ministry of Economy & Tourism IP sector has launched the UAE’s first federal GI system to safeguard national products with a unique local identity and enhance their competitiveness globally. The first phase includes four products: Hatta honey, RAK ceramics, Al Dhafra Dabbas dates, and traditional palm frond crafts.
Gulf BPG attended the launch event, supporting efforts to strengthen IP protection, preserve cultural heritage, and unlock new global opportunities for UAE products.

More Debates. More Talent, IP Moot Court Continues
2025-05-12 - 2025-05-14 | School: International Concept for Education (ICE) – Al Meydan and Greenwood International School, Muhaisna
Building on the strong momentum of the IP Moot Court Initiative, Gulf BPG continued its engagement with two additional schools, further expanding the program’s reach in line with the UAE Year of Community. The initiative was successfully delivered at International Concept for Education (ICE) – Al Meydan and Greenwood International School, Muhaisna, engaging more students in hands-on learning around intellectual property and legal reasoning.
Once again, the level of student enthusiasm, creativity, and participation was inspiring. Students demonstrated a strong ability to engage with complex IP concepts, apply legal reasoning to practical scenarios, and express innovative perspectives, highlighting the value of early exposure to intellectual property education.
Through these continued sessions, Gulf BPG reaffirms its commitment to youth empowerment, education, and community development, and looks forward to further expanding the IP Moot Court Initiative to reach more schools and young minds across the UAE.

F2F Training Session for Dubai Customs.
2025-05-14 | Dubai Customs HQ
Brands: P&G, LEGO, Brabus & Huawei

From Classroom to Courtroom: The Final IP Moot Court Session of 2025
2025-06-10 | DIFC Courts
The 2025 IP Moot Court Series concluded with a successful and highly engaging final round held at DIFC Courts, marking a proud milestone in this year’s youth-focused intellectual property initiative.
The final session witnessed outstanding performances by participating teams, with Dubai International Private School – Al Quoz securing first place, and School of Modern Skills achieving second place, in recognition of their strong advocacy skills, legal reasoning, and courtroom presentation.
The closing ceremony was honoured by the presence of Dr. Abdelrahman Almuaini, Assistant Undersecretary of the Intellectual Property Sector at the Ministry of Economy, who took part in honouring the winning teams, adding significant value to this prestigious occasion.
During the ceremony, Saint Joseph University (USJ) Dubai also honoured Gulf BPG and its strategic partners for their continued support, collaboration, and contributions to the success of the IP Moot Court initiative and its impact on youth legal education.
Gulf BPG commends all participating students, judges, academic partners, and collaborators for making this edition of the IP Moot Court a true celebration of intellectual property, legal talent, and experiential learning. The successful conclusion of the 2025 series underscores the importance of cross-sector collaboration in nurturing future legal professionals and innovators aligned with the UAE’s national vision.

Gulf BPG Attends Escape Room Activation organized by NISSAN & Ministry of Economy
2025-06-12 - 2025-06-14 | YAS Mall, Abu Dhabi
Gulf BPG attended the Nissan Escape Room activation, an interactive awareness initiative that engages the public through an immersive, educational experience. The event brought together key stakeholders and community members in an innovative format, reinforcing the importance of consumer awareness, market integrity, and collaboration between the public and private sectors.
Organized by Nissan, the initiative demonstrated how interactive platforms can effectively communicate key messages, foster public engagement, and support broader awareness objectives in a dynamic and accessible manner.
Gulf BPG’s attendance reflects its continued support for innovative initiatives that promote awareness, collaboration, and best practices across industries, while engaging the broader community through impactful and creative approaches.

3rd F2F Training session for AD DED Inspectors
2025-06-19 | Abu Dhabi DED
Brands: Huawei, WD-40 & JTI

F2F Training Session for Dubai Customs
2025-06-30 | Dubai Customs HQ
Brands: Beiersdorf, LV, Berluti & Rimowa

Gulf BPG attends a Webinar on AI in Patenting Operations: Global Insights and UAE Perspectives
2025-07-03 | Online
Gulf BPG was pleased to attend and support the webinar “AI in Patenting Operations: Global Insights and UAE Perspectives,” organized by AIPPI UAE.
The session opened with remarks from Hoda Barakat, followed by a welcome address from Dr. Abdelrahman Almuaini, Assistant Undersecretary of the IP Sector at the Ministry of Economy, who emphasized the UAE’s commitment to strengthening its innovation framework through policy, collaboration, and emerging technologies such as AI.
The webinar explored how AI is reshaping patenting operations globally, from examination procedures and legal interpretation to data-driven analytics, while highlighting the UAE’s active role in these international discussions and its positioning as a regional innovation hub. Experts from the Japan External Trade Organization, the European Patent Office, the World Intellectual Property Organization, and the UAE Patent Office shared insights.
Gulf BPG is proud to support initiatives that advance dialogue on innovation, technology, and intellectual property, and commends AIPPI UAE and its Patent Group for delivering a timely and impactful discussion.

Gulf BPG at the WIPO General Assembly: Shaping the Future of Global IP
2025-07-09 | WIPO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
Gulf BPG proudly attended the 66th Series of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) General Assembly, held in Geneva from 8-17 July 2025, and participated in one of the most significant annual global gatherings on intellectual property governance and policy.
Represented by Mr. Malek Hannouf, Chairman, Gulf BPG, joined delegates from WIPO’s 194 Member States, including ministers, heads of IP offices, and global innovation leaders, to contribute to high-level discussions on the future of the international IP ecosystem and collaborative frameworks to strengthen IP systems worldwide.
The Assembly serves as a central forum where Member States and observer organizations shape IP policy, share insights, and explore strategic cooperation to support innovation, creativity, and sustainable development — reinforcing global efforts to enhance IP protection and economic growth.
During the Assemblies, Daren Tang, Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization, highlighted the resilience of the global IP system despite ongoing challenges, noting steady growth across the PCT, Madrid, and Hague systems, as well as a 25% increase in WIPO’s mediation and arbitration services.
The importance of stronger cooperation among national and regional IP offices and WIPO, particularly through shared digital tools, digital transformation initiatives, and capacity-building, was discussed. The Assemblies also showcased forward-looking innovation through the presentation of AIII – Artificial Intelligence Infrastructure Interchange, a global platform led by WIPO to promote fair, interoperable, and inclusive use of AI within the IP ecosystem.
Gulf BPG’s participation reflects its continued commitment to global IP dialogue, international cooperation, and alignment of regional brand protection efforts with evolving global best practices.

Gulf BPG Expands Regional Reach with Training Session for Jordanian Authorities
2025-07-16 | Sheraton Amman Al Nabil Hotel, Jordan.
As part of its strategic efforts to strengthen intellectual property protection beyond the GCC, Gulf Brand Protection Group organized a dedicated training session for Jordanian authorities, marking an important step in expanding its jurisdiction and regional impact across the wider MENA region.
The session brought together representatives from Jordanian Customs and the Jordan Standards and Metrology Organization (JSMO) to enhance enforcement capabilities, technical knowledge, and practical understanding of intellectual property rights, counterfeiting risks, and brand protection mechanisms.
The training was supported by a strong group of international brand owners, reflecting cross-sector collaboration between authorities and rights holders. Participating brands included Louis Vuitton, RIMOWA, Berluti, Beiersdorf, Syngenta, MOBIS, Caterpillar, Burberry, Tiffany & Co., Apple, Lacoste, WD-40, Huawei, HP, Jimmy Choo, Versace and Michael Kors.
Through practical presentations and product-specific insights, the session addressed methods for identifying counterfeit goods, understanding infringement patterns, and mitigating risks to consumer safety and market integrity.
This initiative reflects Gulf BPG’s growing role as a regional platform for IP capacity building, extending collaboration beyond the GCC to support authorities across the Middle East in line with international best practices. By fostering cooperation between enforcement bodies and brand owners, Gulf BPG continues to contribute to stronger IP ecosystems, enhanced enforcement, and sustainable economic development across the region.

Online Training session for AD Custom Inspectors
2025-07-30
Brands: LV, Rimowa & Berluti

Gulf BPG Participates in Ajman DED ‘Our Summer is Happiness’ Initiative
2025-08-05 - 2025-08-06 | Ajman Saray Hotel
Gulf BPG participated in the Ajman Department of Economic Development’s “Our Summer is Happiness” initiative, which had several programs, among which is “The Smart Young Consumer”, to raise awareness of intellectual property rights among youth and the broader community through engaging and educational activities.
Gulf BPG delivered IP awareness lectures covering general intellectual property topics, enforcement challenges, and the importance of respecting IP rights. As part of its youth-focused engagement, Gulf BPG also organized an IP Moot Court activity for participating youth, providing an interactive learning experience that encouraged critical thinking, teamwork, and practical understanding of IP concepts in a simulated legal setting.
Ajman DED recognized Gulf BPG participants following the conclusion of the events. Gulf BPG’s participation in this initiative reflects its ongoing commitment to community engagement, youth education, and supporting national awareness programs that promote intellectual property protection, consumer safety, and responsible market practices.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNODAPYByXw/?igsh=cnRjZmEzMHMzbXM4

5th F2F Training Session for AD DED
2025-08-21 | Abu Dhabi DED Offices
Brands:
Mobis, Beiersdorf, & TotalEnergies

Strengthening IP Enforcement: Gulf BPG Training for KSA Customs in Riyadh
2025-09-08 - 2025-09-09 | Sheraton Riyadh Hotel & Towers
Gulf BPG organized a two-day training workshop for Saudi Customs in Riyadh, as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen intellectual property enforcement and enhance cooperation with regional authorities.
The training focused on practical identification of genuine versus counterfeit goods, combining technical presentations with hands-on awareness sessions tailored to customs enforcement needs. The program aimed to strengthen officers’ ability to identify infringements, recognize brand-specific protection features, and reduce risks to consumer safety and market integrity.
The workshop witnessed strong participation from brand owners, reflecting effective collaboration between rights holders and enforcement authorities. Participating members included:
Louis Vuitton, Rimowa, Berluti, Mobis Parts Middle East FZE, Beiersdorf, WD-40, Huawei, Unilever, Kenvue, Burberry, Syngenta, Bulgari, Messika, Michael Kors, Versace, Jimmy Choo, Van Cleef & Arpels, Montblanc, Cartier, Richemont Watches, Dell, Adidas, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Apple, PUMA, Gucci, Luxottica, GANT, Lacoste, and Philip Morris International.
Through these sessions, Gulf BPG reaffirmed its commitment to capacity building, cross-sector collaboration, and practical IP enforcement training, supporting Saudi Arabia’s efforts to combat counterfeiting and protect consumers and legitimate trade.

Gulf BPG Participates in the Regional Conference on Intellectual Property Enforcement Practices
2025-09-08 - 2025-09-10 | The General Secretariat of the Gulf Cooperation Council premises in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Gulf BPG represented by its Chairman Malek Hannouf, participated in the Regional Conference on Intellectual Property Enforcement Practices, held in Riyadh from 8 to 10 September 2025.
The conference was organized by the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) in cooperation with the General Secretariat of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and in strategic partnership with the Japan Patent Office (JPO) and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), with participation from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and several national and regional IP associations.
The event was inaugurated by H.E. Dr. Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Al-Swailem, CEO of SAIP, and H.E. Mr. Ahmed bin Nasser Al-Murshidi, Director General of the Patent Office at the GCC Secretariat, in the presence of senior officials, global IP experts, and enforcement specialists from GCC countries, Arab states, and international jurisdictions.
Through panel discussions and specialized workshops, the conference examined key issues related to intellectual property enforcement, including emerging trends in inspection and investigation, combating IP infringements in the digital environment, strengthening judicial and customs cooperation, and building technical capacities for inspectors and enforcement authorities across the region.
As part of the conference program, the Trademark Protection Strategies session highlighted the most prominent challenges and practical solutions in IP enforcement, particularly in light of rapid technological advancements and evolving infringement methods.
Gulf BPG’s participation reflects its continued commitment to supporting regional and international initiatives to improve IP enforcement practices and foster collaboration among authorities, rights holders, and global IP institutions.

Gulf BPG attends workshop on "Strengthening Efforts to Stop Online Piracy"
2025-09-12 | Dubai Media City Building 2
Gulf BPG delegate attended the “Strengthening Efforts to Stop Online Piracy” workshop organised by the UAE Ministry of Economy & Tourism (MoET) in collaboration with Dubai Media City. The session brought together senior officials, industry leaders, enforcement specialists, and private-sector partners to address the growing challenge of online piracy in the digital age.
The workshop was formally opened by H.E. Dr. Abdelrahman Almuaini, Assistant Undersecretary of the MoET, alongside remarks from Mr. Majed Al Suwaidi, Senior Vice President of Dubai Media City, and Javier Tebas Medrano, President of La Liga — underscoring the importance of public-private collaboration in countering digital IP infringements.
A panel discussion featured representatives from the MoET, Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), and major media and streaming service partners, offering insights on practical enforcement measures and initiatives like InstaBlock, which enhances the UAE’s capacity to identify and block infringing online content

Gulf BPG Participates in The Fourth Arab Conference on IP, themed “Protecting IP Rights in the Era of Digital Technologies
2025-09-23 - 2025-09-24 | University of Sharjah
Under the patronage of HH. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University of Sharjah, launched the Fourth Arab Conference on Intellectual Property at the University of Sharjah under the theme “Protecting Intellectual Property Rights in the Era of Digital Technologies.” The conference — organized by the Intellectual Property Association (EIPA), the Arab Administrative Development Organization, and the Egyptian Japanese University of Science and Technology — brought together IP experts, policymakers, and innovators to address the latest challenges and opportunities in digital and AI-driven environments.
Gulf BPG, represented by Chairman Malek Hannouf, participated in a panel discussion and shared insights on enforcement strategies, cross-border cooperation, and the pivotal role of IP protection in advancing regional innovation ecosystems. The conference explored key topics, including legal adaptations to digital advancements, AI’s impact on IP rights protection, challenges in the virtual environment, and the importance of unified legislative frameworks. Experts also highlighted the role of education and awareness-raising in building resilient IP systems for the future.

Advancing IP Enforcement Capabilities: Gulf BPG at EIPA Capacity-Building Program
2025-10-08 | EIPA HQ
Gulf BPG participated in the Capacity-Building Program on Enhancing the Impact of Intellectual Property Rights Enforcement, organized by EIPA in cooperation with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and Dubai Courts.
Gulf BPG was represented by its Chairman, Malek Hannouf, and Board Member, Bassel El Turk, reaffirming the Group’s strong commitment to supporting enforcement authorities and strengthening public–private collaboration in the field of intellectual property protection.
The program aimed to enhance enforcement capabilities, improve the effective implementation of IP rights, and reinforce cooperation between rights holders and law enforcement entities. As part of the agenda, Gulf BPG representatives delivered an advanced training session to UAE police authorities. Covering intellectual property protection, the impact of artificial intelligence, and evolving copyright challenges, among other key topics.

Gulf BPG Honored as Strategic Partner at National IP Enforcement Capacity-Building
2025-10-09 | Dubai Police Officers Club
Gulf BPG was recognized and honored as a Strategic Partner for its significant contributions to strengthening the United Arab Emirates’ intellectual property protection ecosystem during the Capacity-Building Program on Enhancing the Impact of IP Rights Enforcement, held at the Dubai Police Officers Club in October 2025.
The program, organized under the umbrella of national efforts to build enforcement capabilities in intellectual property law, brought together representatives from police, enforcement agencies, government entities, and private sector partners. During the graduation ceremony of the capacity-building initiative — attended by senior leadership, including HE Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Vice President of Police and Public Security in Dubai — Strategic Partners supporting the initiative were formally acknowledged for their role in advancing IP enforcement and awareness across the UAE.
Gulf BPG’s recognition reflects its ongoing commitment to collaborating across public and private sectors to develop practical training, share expertise, and reinforce the implementation of effective IP control measures — all aligned with the UAE’s vision to support a knowledge-based economy and robust marketplace.
The programme also celebrated the graduation of 47 participants from the national IP enforcement capacity-building course, representing various police, government, and private institutions — underscoring the strategic impact of such collaborations in strengthening national enforcement competencies.

Gulf BPG at the RISE Conference
2025-10-13 | Intercontinental Hotel – Festival City- Dubai
Under the patronage and presence of H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, the MoET organized the “From Idea to Impact: Reinforcing Intangibles to Strengthen the Economy” conference, in collaboration with the World Intellectual Property Organization and the Dubai Future Foundation. The conference brought together policymakers, IP experts, innovators, entrepreneurs, and representatives from universities and research centers.
The conference highlighted the critical role of intangible assets and intellectual property in strengthening the national economy, bringing together experts, policymakers, and academics to exchange insights on emerging trends. Discussions focused on transforming intellectual property into investment-ready assets, stimulating R&D and innovation, advancing Green IP initiatives, and strengthening legislative and institutional frameworks to support a knowledge-based and sustainable economy.
The event also marked the launch of research centre evaluation standards to enhance the quality of research and innovation, while showcasing the UAE’s flagship IP initiatives and reaffirming the country’s leading position in innovation regionally and globally.
Gulf BPG, represented by Chairman Malek Hannouf, participated in the conference’s 2nd panel discussion on The Role of Leadership and Innovation, during which he emphasized the strategic importance of intellectual property and intangible assets as core drivers of economic growth, innovation, and brand value. He highlighted the critical role of effective IP enforcement, public-private collaboration, and awareness-building in transforming innovation into sustainable economic impact. He also stressed the need to align brand protection efforts with national IP strategies, supporting the UAE’s vision of a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy, and commended the Ministry of Economy and Tourism for its leadership in strengthening the IP ecosystem.
Gulf BPG also participated through a dedicated booth, showcasing its initiatives and activities while supporting the UAE’s efforts to advance intellectual property awareness and strengthen the national innovation ecosystem. The participation served as a platform to engage stakeholders and reinforce Gulf BPG’s commitment to contributing to the UAE’s strategic vision for a knowledge-based and sustainable economy.

Where IP Enforcement Meets Sustainability: Project Zero
2025-10-15 | GITEX, Dubai World Trade Centre
Gulf BPG signed an MoU with Dubai Customs to strengthen cooperation on intellectual property protection and support Project Zero, an innovative initiative to eliminate counterfeit trade through sustainability-driven solutions.
The MoU was signed by Mansoor Al Malik, Executive Director for Policies and Legislation at Dubai Customs, and Malek Hannouf, Chairman of Gulf BPG, establishing a framework for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and joint efforts to combat counterfeiting while advancing environmental and social objectives.
Project Zero focuses on zero-waste recycling of seized counterfeit goods. The initiative began with ready-to-wear (RTW) items being fully shredded and transformed into new, unbranded clothing, ensuring counterfeit products are removed from circulation. These newly produced items are then distributed for charitable purposes, aligning the project with both ESG principles and CSR objectives. The project is set to expand to plastics in its next phase, further reinforcing its environmental impact.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to protecting intellectual property, promoting sustainability, and supporting community welfare, positioning Dubai as a global model for innovative, responsible, and circular approaches to IP enforcement.

Gulf BPG on Air: Discussing the Counterfeiting War on Al-Arraab Podcast
2025-10-15 | Podcast “Al-Arraab”
Malek Hannouf, Chairman of the Brand Owners Protection Group, appeared as a guest on a new episode of the podcast “Al-Arraab.” The episode, titled “The Counterfeiting War: The Battle to Enforce and Protect Intellectual Property Rights Against Infringement.”
During the discussion, Mr. Hannouf shared insights on the growing challenges of counterfeiting, the importance of effective intellectual property enforcement, and the role of collaboration between brand owners, authorities, and stakeholders in protecting rights and safeguarding markets. The episode shed light on current enforcement realities and the evolving landscape of IP protection in the region.
Link: https://youtu.be/xmCdcV8W8D4?si=ZBUq9ztFOSPIMi9o
