7th Online Training session for AD Customs
2023-07-17
Participated Brand: TOSHIBA & Beiersdorf

8th Online Training session for AD Customs
2023-08-01
Participated Brand: Google & FITBIT

8th Online Training Session for Dubai Customs
2023-08-10
Participated Brand: Canon Inc., Honda Motor Co. & Toyota Motor

1st Online Training Session for Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property – SAIP – KSA
2023-08-23
Participated Brand: Tiffany & Beiersdorf.

4th Online Training Session for Sultanate of Oman IP Enforcement Departments.
2023-09-04
Participated Brand: P&G

9th Online Training session for AD Customs
2023-09-05
Participated Brand: JTI & WD-40.

F2F workshop/training for Kuwait MoCI & Customs
2023-09-07 | Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa
Gulf BPG hosted an in-person training workshop for Kuwaiti authorities, including representatives from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) and Customs. The event attracted approximately 45 officials, and 14 brands conducted training sessions focused on differentiating between genuine and counterfeit products. The workshop was highly successful, marked by active engagement and interaction among participants.

MoE Roundtable discussion focuses on assessing the current state of the IP sector
2023-09-07
On the 7th of September 2023, the Ministry of Economy in the UAE invited the Gulf BPG along with other Associations and IP service providers to a round table under the theme of “ Hiwar” at Al Khawaneej Majlis in Dubai.
The discussion was led by His Excellency Abdulla Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy, who emphasized the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors to improve the IP ecosystem.
His Excellency Dr. Abdelrahman Almuaini, Assistant Undersecretary at the Ministry of Economy, added that the new federal laws on Copyrights, trademarks, and Industrial Property, along with the new structure of the IP sector at the Ministry of Economy are part of the new initiatives to develop the IP ecosystem.
Malek Hannouf, Chairman of the Gulf BPG, highlighted the importance of implementing a full digital transformation from registration through blockchain technology, to automation of the examination process and finally creating a unified database linked with all Law Enforcement Authorities to identify challenges, potential areas of improvement through data analysis.

4th Online Training Session for Qatar MoCI
2023-09-12
Participated Brand: Unilever & Lincoln Electric

Webinar on Office Recycling - Let's work together for a more sustainable future!
2023-09-13
“ Gulf BPG & Recycling Companies members organized an engaging “Office Recycling Awareness Session” designed to empower individuals and organizations to take concrete workplace sustainability steps. Gulf BPG Chairman welcomed the audience thanked everyone for attending and stressed on the importance of Recycling in safeguarding our environment, emphasizing the need for immediate action.
Topics discussed innovative ways to reduce food waste and promote eco-friendly practices. Plastics and Paper Recycling, E-waste management, digital solutions for office recycling, and valuable tips on conducting and maintaining impactful recycling awareness programs.
This event aimed to inspire a greener workplace, equipping participants with the knowledge and tools to implement successful office recycling programs. The webinar was concluded with a request to continue the collective journey towards a greener future, one where sustainability is at the forefront of our workplace practices.”

Seminar on Combatting Online Infringement
2023-09-14 | Intercontinental Hotel – Festival City- Dubai
Under the patronage of the Ministry of Economy in the UAE, Gulf BPG organized a seminar on Combatting Online Infringement, in cooperation with, Economic Service – French Embassy in the UAE; French National Institute for Industrial Property (INPI), AIPPI-UAE and Emirates Intellectual Property Association.
Malek Hannouf, Gulf BPG chairman, welcomed all stakeholders and opened the seminar with a speech stressing on the importance of collaboration between Law enforcement authorities, online platforms and brand owners in order to succeed combatting online infringement in fast path tech world.
Afterward, he gave the floor to HE Dr. Abdel Rahman Almuaini, Assistant Undersecretary for IP Section at the Ministry Of Economy UAE, who highlighted the importance of addressing this critical challenge. He acknowledged the transformative power of the Internet and e-commerce, and on the other hand, the threat posed by online infringement, including piracy and cyberattacks.
HE Al Muaini stressed on the need for global collaboration, emphasizing the UAE’s commitment to creating a platform for knowledge sharing. He urged active participation of all stakeholders emphasizing the potential for collective efforts to ensure a safer digital future.
This event brought together experts and leaders from online platforms, as well as legal and regulatory entities, to discuss crucial topics surrounding intellectual property online enforcement and protection. Offering valuable insights and fostering collaboration among key stakeholders in the field.
The first panel, titled “The Voice of Online Platforms” was moderated by Malek Hannouf, Chairman of Gulf BPG, brought together prominent insights on the platforms procedures and figures on their efforts. These platforms included Pauline Monier, Director of Global IP Enforcement at Alibaba Group, and Hadi Al Kanani, responsible for Brand Protection Strategic Partnerships at Amazon and a Board Member at Gulf BPG.
The second panel, focused on “Legal and Regulatory Perspectives,” was moderated by Hoda Barakat, President of AIPPI UAE and Board Member of EIPA. The panel featured distinguished speakers such as Yamish Yakoob, IP Attache for the GCC from UKIPO, Dr. Jinane Kabbara, an IP Counsellor-ME-INPI Expert, and Bassel El Turk, the Vice President of AIPPI-UAE. Said panel tackled the legal framework of online enforcement in the UAE in comparison with France and UK systems.
This event marked a successful beginning in fostering collaboration among key stakeholders in the field, paving the way for future endeavors.

2nd Online Training Session for Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property – SAIP – KSA
2023-09-20
Participated Brand: DORMAKABA, HUAWEI, and Burberry.

IPR Border Enforcement Workshop for UAE Federal Authority
2023-09-21
The Gulf Brand Protection Group was invited to participate in the IPR Border Enforcement Workshop for UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security organized by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on the 21st of September 2023. Rima El-Achkar, the director of communication at the Gulf BPG presented during the Industry Session and highlighted the current trends and techniques to identify counterfeit products.

5th Online Training Session for Sultanate of Oman IP Enforcement Departments.
2023-09-26
Participated Brand: Unilever & Ecyclex

F2F WorkshopTraining Session for AD Customs
2023-10-03
Participated Brand: MOBIS , SAMSUNG & JTI.

Panel Discussion on Arbitration and the Rise of Renewable Energy Disputes
2023-10-03 | Dubai Chambers Building, Level 13
Gulf BPG delegate attended a panel discussion on “Arbitration and the Rise of Renewable Energy Disputes” organized by The Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC) and Saint Joseph University Dubai. The panel included distinguished professionals with extensive experience advising on various energy disputes. In this discussion, experts, practitioners, and stakeholders from various segments gathered to discuss the latest trends and challenges related to arbitration in energy disputes.

Gulf BPG delegate attends a session on Policy Dialogue: Domain Names and New Tech organized by INTA.
2023-10-04
The event kicked off with opening remarks from H.E. Dr. Abdelrahman Almuaini, Assistant Undersecretary of Intellectual Property Sector – Ministry of Economy · Ministry Of Economy, UAE. The sessions covered several topics led by industry leaders including new technologies, domain name issues, the importance of IP for businesses, and Fighting Domain Name Abuse. Other sessions discussed New Technologies & IP, ccTLD Policies, and concluded with presentations from IP attachés, offering valuable insights from field experts.

Gulf BPG attends DCCC’s 3rd Quarter Meeting.
2023-10-04
During the Dubai Customs Advisory Council meeting, H.E. Sultan Ahmed bin Slayer, DP World Group Chairman and CEO, highlighted significant economic growth in the UAE, emphasizing the positive impact of global partnership agreements. These agreements, integral to the country’s strategic plans, are fueling the UAE’s sustainable development.
H.E. Ahmed Mahboob Musabih, Director General at Dubai Customs, underscored their commitment to supporting business growth and foreign trade. He emphasized alignment with Dubai’s Economic Agenda through advanced customs services and automation
The meeting featured presentations on Challenges and Retail Advocacy, Corporate Tax in UAE, and Customs Inspection Booking integration with DP World’s e-Token Service. Key officials, Gulf BPG, business representatives, and Dubai Customs executives attended this meeting.

6th Online Training Session for Sultanate of Oman IP Enforcement Departments.
2023-10-09
Participated Brand: Essilor Luxottica & Bath & Body Works

AD Customs F2F Workshop: Photographing suspect products
2023-10-12 | AD International Airport Customs
Participated Brand: LV, RIMOWA, APPLE, PUMA, LACOSTE, CHANNEL, GUCCI, HUAWEI, and P&G.

F2F Workshop for Saudi Arabia Intellectual Property Authority (SAIP)
2023-10-18 - 2023-10-19 | SAIP premises – Riyadh
In collaboration with the Saudi Arabia Intellectual Property Authority (SAIP), Gulf BPG conducted a two-day face-to-face workshop for SAIP inspectors. Brand owners such as P&G, Reckitt, PUMA, HUAWEI, Luxottica, Orient, and Polo Ralph Lauren participated, providing insights on distinguishing between genuine and counterfeit products.

9th Online Training Session for Dubai Customs
2023-10-26
Participated Brand: RIMOWA , HP & PMI

USPTO Workshop for Administrative UAE authorities
2023-10-26
Gulf BPG participated in The USPTO Workshop for Administrative UAE authorities, represented by Gulf BPG Communication manager Rima EL ACHKAR who spoke during the industry session panel moderated by Aisha Salem-Howey in the workshop held by the Ministry of Economy, the USPTO and Sharjah Chamber of Commerce & Industry on the Best practices concerning IPR administrative enforcement in the UAE where she highlighted the UAE’s IP protection system and importance of public-private partnership and data sharing.

Gulf BPG introduces Amazon CCU
2023-10-31
Gulf BPG organized a webinar in cooperation with Amazon, which was held on 31st October 2023.
The webinar started with a warm welcome by Gulf BPG Chairman, Mr. Malek Hannouf, who stressed on the rise of online infringements and the necessity of collaboration with all online platforms to prevent counterfeiters from using said digital tools. Then Mr Hadi AL Kanani, Brand Protection Strategic Partnerships at Amazon, introduced Amazon Counterfeit Crime Unit (CCU). Their insightful opening remarks set the tone for an engaging and informative session about the potential enforcement collaboration between Amazon and brand owners.
Mrs Margherita Puca, Senior Risk Manager at CCU, and Grant Lucas, Sr. Industry Specialist, captivated the audience with a detailed presentation about the CCU procedures and cases. They offered valuable insights into the activities of the Amazon CCU and shared collaborative strategies with brands for handling joint cases across the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, allowing participants to directly engage with the CCU representatives. The thoughtful questions underscored the audience’s keen interest in the topic. The closing remarks reiterated the importance of continued collaboration in combating online counterfeit infringements.
In summary, the Gulf BPG Webinar on Amazon CCU not only provided a platform for knowledge exchange but also fostered connections among industry professionals dedicated to upholding brand integrity and combating counterfeits.

10th Online Training Session for AD Customs
2023-11-07
Participated Brand: Danfoss, PMI, and NGK SPARK PLUG CO

Gulf BPG Participates in The EMEA Security Conference & Exhibition
2023-11-08 - 2023-11-09 | DoubleTree by Hilton M Square, Dubai , UAE.
The EMEA Security Conference & Exhibition convened an international audience of leading specialists to explore the latest trends, developments and threats related to illicit trade and anti-counterfeiting technologies across industries. The event provided an opportunity to discuss winning strategies, successful examples, and innovative technologies with a particular focus on the EMEA region through interactive panel discussions, case studies, presentations, vibrant Networking sessions and exhibitions.
H.E. Sultan Darwish, Consumer Protection & Commercial Director at the Ministry of Economy, delivered the first keynote speech, emphasizing the crucial collaboration between the private and public sectors. Gulf BPG, as a lead partner, presented a keynote speech by its Chairman Malek Hannouf, highlighting the UAE’s significant strides in Intellectual Property, focusing on Digital Transformation, Data Analytics and Business AI.
Throughout the conference, Gulf BPG members participated in various panels as moderators and panelists.
On day one, Mr. Cameron Walker – Global Brand Protection Manager at Beiersdorf, moderated a panel discussion on “Synergizing Forces Against Counterfeiting: Unleashing the Power of Collaboration & Public-Private Partnerships.”
On day two, a panel discussion titled “Ensuring Trust in the Digital Marketplace: Strategies for Brand and Consumer Protection,” moderated by Hadi Al Kanani – Global Relations Manager – Brand Protection, MENA, Amazon, featured experts Kamal Sharma – Director & Assistant General Counsel, AMA-WEST, IMEA, Global Brand Protection, Procter & Gamble, Philippe Van Gils – Director Illicit Trade Prevention SSEA CIS MEA, Philip Morris International, Yasir Masood – IP Manager, Rouse, and Saba Vasim-Group Brand Protection & Security Manager, BOSCH. The discussion focused on the importance of collaboration with industry, government, and online platforms, empowering consumers to report counterfeit products, and utilizing technology tools for fighting online counterfeits.
Furthermore, Gulf BPG animated a booth at said conference, providing an excellent opportunity for networking and amplifying the voice and objectives of Gulf BPG.
In conclusion, the conference was a resounding success, fostering insightful discussions, promoting meaningful collaborations, and providing a platform for the exchange of cutting-edge ideas.

8th Online Training Session for AD DED
2023-11-09
Participated Brand: LV & RIMOWA

6th Online Training Session for Qatar MoCI
2023-11-14
Participated Brand: Toshiba

F2F Workshop for Dubai & Sharjah Authorities
2023-11-16 | Holiday Inn Dubai Festival City
Gulf BPG organized a face-to-face workshop in collaboration with Dubai Authorities, including DET, Police, and the Criminal Lab, along with Sharjah Authorities, including DED, Police, and the criminal lab. The event commenced with a warm welcome from Malek Hannouf, Gulf BPG Chairman, followed by a presentation on IP fundamentals, counterfeiting, and significant threats to brands and consumers. The presentation covered a spectrum of topics:

Counterfeit and imitation products
Unfair competition
Smuggling
Parallel import and its impact on local trade and revenues
Judicial rulings from around the world and the cooperation of competent authorities between countries
New amendments to the Trademark law -UAE.

Following the informative sessions, delegates were encouraged to form small groups and explore the interactive stands set up by Brand Owners. In this rotation, brand owners actively demonstrated how to practically distinguish genuine from counterfeit products.
Participating Brands: LV, Rimowa, Apple, Beiersdorf, Mobis Parts Middle East FZE, Unilever, P&G, Burberry, JTI, Luxottica, PUMA, WD-40, and Ecyclex.

3rd Online Training Session for Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property – SAIP – KSA
2023-11-22
Participated Brand: Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry FH & Mobis Parts Middle East FZE
