Gulf BPG

Moroccan Intellectual Property Office Delegation Visit to UAE
2025-04-07 | Ministry of Economy Offices – Central Park Towers, DIFC, Dubai.
Gulf BPG, represented by Board Member Basel El-Turk, participated in a meeting with His Excellency Dr. Abdelrahman Hassan Almuaini, Assistant Undersecretary for the Intellectual Property Sector at the Ministry of Economy, along with the visiting delegation from the Moroccan Intellectual Property Office to the United Arab Emirates. During the meeting, His Excellency Dr. Almuaini presented the strategic development and forward-looking plans of the Ministry of Economy and the IP Office in the UAE. Mr. El-Turk spoke on behalf of the Brand Protection Group, highlighting its ongoing cooperation with the Ministry in areas such as legislation, policy-making, and broader initiatives aimed at strengthening intellectual property protection and enforcement frameworks.

Webinar: 2025 1st IP Webinar on "Employee creations: Who owns the IP rights?
2025-03-26 | Four Seasons Hotel, Kuwait.
Gulf BPG, in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Economy, Economic Service – French Embassy in UAE; French National Institute for Industrial Property (INPI) – France, AIPPI-UAE, Emirates IP Association (EIPA), hosted their first Intellectual Property webinar in 2025. The session brought together experts to discuss thoroughly one of the most debated IP topics: The ownership of intellectual property creations by employees.
Key Insights from France and Europe
Mr Frédéric Glaize (Plasseraud IP, France) explained that, under French and EU law, copyright generally belongs to the creator, with important exceptions for software developed under employment duties. Design rights in the EU are typically vested in the employer, and France is aligning its national law accordingly. For patents, he outlined three categories:

Mission inventions: directly linked to employees’ duties, owned by the employer.
Attributable non-mission inventions: created using company resources; the employer may claim ownership, but additional remuneration is due to the inventor.
Personal inventions: created outside work and without company resources, owned by the employee.

Key Insights from the UAE
Dr. Hemida Abdelati (Axiom Mark IP, UAE) highlighted that in the UAE and many Middle Eastern countries, the general rule is that economic rights belong to the employer if creations are made during employment or using company resources. However, moral rights (authorship) always remain with the employee. He emphasized the decisive role of employment contracts, NDAs, and assignment agreements, noting that the UAE Patent Office accepts an employment contract as a substitute for an assignment deed in filings, reflecting the presumption that employee inventions transfer to the employer.
Practical Recommendations
Both speakers stressed that clear, precise contracts are essential to avoid disputes. Employers should establish IP policies, educate employees, and review agreements regularly. Employees, on the other hand, should carefully review contract clauses, keep detailed records of their creations, and seek expert advice before signing agreements.
Q&A Highlights

Remote work raises new challenges, but also creates evidence trails (emails, logs) that can support employer claims.
Cross-border scenarios add complexity, with international conventions playing a role.
Courts may interpret laws differently; therefore, written agreements remain the most reliable safeguard.

This engaging session concluded with a strong message: proactive contracting and documentation are the key to balancing creativity and business protection in today’s innovation-driven economy.

HE Minister of Economy visits InstaBlock lab while in action.
2025-03-17 | Dubai Media City, Building 7, Floor 2, Unit 236.
H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, visited the InstaBlock Lab at Dubai Media City — a pioneering facility designed to accelerate the blocking of websites infringing on intellectual property rights.
Gulf BPG took part in this milestone visit, represented by our Board Members Bassel El Turk, Rajae Lemfadli and Mehdi Al Rais . During the visit, Gulf BPG was honoured with a certificate of recognition for its continued contribution to IP protection efforts in the region.
This recognition reflects the strong partnership between the Ministry of Economy, industry stakeholders, and Gulf BPG in building a sustainable and innovation-driven IP ecosystem in the UAE.

A Night to Remember: Gulf BPG’s Suhoor at Burj Al Arab!
2025-03-13 | Al Diwan Tent – Jumeirah Burj Al Arab.
Gulf BPG hosted a memorable Ramadan Suhoor at the iconic Burj Al Arab, introducing the elegant Al Diwan Ramadan Tent for the first time. Honored by the presence of H.E. Dr. Abdelrahman Hassan Almuaini, Assistant Undersecretary for Intellectual Property at the Ministry of Economy, the event brought together members and distinguished guests from private and government IP associations. The evening was truly unforgettable, with engaging discussions, meaningful connections, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Gulf BPG Conducts Face-to-Face Workshop for Authorities in Oman
2025-02-26 | Hormuz Grand Muscat, A Radisson Collection Hotel
Gulf BPG organized a face-to-face workshop in collaboration with key Omani authorities, including the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, the Consumer Protection Authority, and Customs.
The event opened with a warm welcome from Gulf BPG Board Member Bassel El Turk, who emphasized the importance of public-private sector cooperation in strengthening intellectual property (IP) protection. He expressed appreciation to the participating departments for their commitment to advancing IP enforcement in Oman.
Mr. Ahmad bin Saif bin Said Al-Sheedi, Head of the Industrial Inspection Department, delivered remarks on behalf of Mr. Imad bin Khamis bin Saeed Al-Shukaili, Director General of Standards and Metrology, thanking Gulf BPG for its continued collaboration and highlighting the significance of united efforts between the public and private sectors.
Following the opening, Bassel El Turk led a comprehensive legal presentation covering IP fundamentals, counterfeiting threats, and the challenges facing both brands and consumers. Topics included imitation products, unfair competition, smuggling, the effects of parallel imports on local trade and revenue, and international judicial rulings.
The workshop featured expert-led presentations from various brands, followed by interactive sessions where delegates visited booths showcasing authentication methods. These hands-on demonstrations helped participants learn how to identify counterfeit versus genuine products.
Participating brand owners included Apple, Louis Vuitton, RIMOWA, Berluti, MOBIS, Danfoss, Syngenta, WD-40, JTI/PMI (Tobacco), and Unilever. The event was highly engaging and drew strong participation from stakeholders.
In recognition of outstanding cooperation, Gulf BPG presented appreciation awards to the Omani authorities, celebrating their continued efforts and support in protecting intellectual property rights.
The event concluded with Mr. Imad bin Khamis bin Saeed Al-Shukaili presenting an award to Gulf BPG, acknowledging its valuable contribution to IP enforcement and capacity-building initiatives in the Sultanate.

Gulf BPG signs the InstaBlock agreement with MoEC
2025-02-25 | Dubai Media City, Building 7, Floor 2, Unit 236.
H.E. Dr. Abdulrahman Al Muaini, Assistant Undersecretary for Intellectual Property Rights at the Ministry of Economy, inaugurated the InstaBlock Lab at Dubai Media City. The lab uses AI to instantly block websites that violate intellectual property rights, particularly unauthorized streaming sites, as part of the Ministry’s new IP system.
In collaboration with TDRA, the initiative aims to strengthen IP enforcement, support the creative economy, and enhance the UAE’s global standing in anti-piracy efforts. In 2024 alone, 4,557 infringing websites were blocked, up from 1,123 in 2023.
The launch event saw participation from public and private sector partners, including Gulf BPG, Dubai Media City, TDRA, LaLiga, and content platforms like OSN, Starzplay, Yango Play, and Abu Dhabi Media. Several MoUs were signed to boost coordination in protecting digital content, including Gulf BPG.
The InstaBlock Lab is a key step in building a secure digital environment and supports the UAE’s We the UAE 2031 vision for a sustainable, innovation-driven economy.

MoEc hosts ‘Qitaf’ exhibition to highlight UAE’s IP achievements and boost innovation
2025-02-18 | MoEc HQ.
The Ministry of Economy hosted the ‘Qitaf’ exhibition at its Dubai HQ to highlight the UAE’s achievements in intellectual property (IP) and boost collaboration among inventors, innovators, and entrepreneurs. Attended by top officials, including H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri – Minister of Economy, H.E. Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri – Director General of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, H.E. Abdulla Al Saleh – Undersecretary of the Ministry, and H.E. Dr. Abdulrahman Al Muaini – Assistant Undersecretary for the Intellectual Property Sector at the Ministry of Economy. the event showcased the UAE’s commitment to developing a robust IP ecosystem as part of its shift toward a knowledge-based economy.
Key highlights included the launch of 31 initiatives supporting innovation such as the Patent Incubator project and a Green IP roadmap. In 2024, trademark registrations rose by 89% and patent grants by 17.5%. The Ministry also reduced drastically patent registration timeframe from 44 to 20 months.
The exhibition featured Emirati-led innovations and two panel sessions on digital transformation in IP and global cooperation. Several public and private entities were honoured for their contributions to the UAE’s IP growth, including Gulf BPG, represented by chairman Malek Hannouf.

Gulf BPG attends Sustainable Publishing Forum “Towards Innovative and Sustainable Publishing” by MoEc
2025-02-17 | Sharjah Book Authority – Sheen Theatre.
A delegate from Gulf BPG attended the Sustainable Publishing Forum, organized by the Ministry of Economy in collaboration with the Sharjah Book Authority, under the theme “Towards Innovative and Sustainable Publishing.”
The forum brought together key stakeholders from the publishing and creative industries to explore strategies for promoting sustainability within the publishing sector. Discussions focused on the sector’s evolving role in driving innovation, supporting environmental responsibility, and contributing to broader sustainable development goals.
The event marked as well ‘Unshor’ program which aims to provide a systematic process through which publishers can grow with the help of experienced professionals who are available to guide and help them to overcome the obstacles in their way.

Gulf BPG participates and sponsor MoEc ‘IP Sport’ Initiative to Boost Innovation and IP Protection in Sports
2025-02-15 | Danube Sports World, Dubai, UAE.
In line with UAE Innovates 2025, the Ministry of Economy, in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports, launched the IP Sport initiative under the slogan: “In the world of sport, we respect IP rights as we respect the rules of the game.” The initiative aims to protect intellectual property (IP) in the sports sector, promote innovation, and create a secure environment for sports-related trademarks, technologies, and creative works.
The launch event brought together key partners, including the Brand Owners’ Protection Group, Emirates Intellectual Property Association, AIPPI- UAE and other national stakeholders. H.E. Abdullah Al Saleh emphasized the importance of said initiative in integrating IP protection across vital sectors and supporting the UAE’s innovation-driven economic vision.
With over 370,000 trademarks and 6,000 patents registered to date, including nearly 2,000 IP rights registered in sports, the initiative further strengthens the UAE’s global leadership in IP protection and sports innovation.
The event featured various sports activities, including padel, football, and tennis, aimed at promoting awareness of innovation in the sports sector. Gulf BPG member representatives demonstrated impressive athletic skills and actively enjoyed the games.

1st F2F Training Session for AD DED Inspectors
2025-02-13 | Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development
Brands: LV, Rimowa, Berluti & Unilever

1st Online Training Session for Dubai Customs - Workshop No.129
2025-02-11
Brands: Unilever, PMI & Messika

Gulf BPG Launches 2025 Training Sessions for KSA authorities with Successful Workshop in Jeddah
2025-02-05 - 2025-02-06 | Narcissus hotel and Resort -Jeddah, KSA.
In collaboration with Saudi Customs, Gulf BPG organized a two-day, in-person training session in Jeddah—marking the first training of 2025, with additional sessions planned across various cities throughout the year.
The event opened with a warm welcome from Gulf BPG representatives. Over the course of two days, participants engaged in a series of brand authentication presentations delivered by representatives from various brand owners. The sessions included hands-on training with physical product samples to enhance practical learning.
Participating brands included: Louis Vuitton, Rimowa, Berluti, Mobis Parts Middle East FZE, Adidas, Luxottica, Gucci, Apple, Puma, Ferrero, Lacoste, Gant, Beiersdorf, Burberry, Kenvue, Philip Morris International, Michael Kors, Versace, Jimmy Choo, Van Cleef & Arpels, Richemont Watches, Ralph Lauren, Montblanc, Cartier, Hermès, Dell, Tommy Hilfiger, and Calvin Klein.

Gulf BPG participated in IP Masterclass on "Trademark and copyrights latest developments" by USJ
2025-02-05 | Saint Joseph University – Dubai
Gulf BPG, represented by Chairman Malek Hannouf and Board Member Bassel El Turk, contributed as panelists by sharing expert insights on the latest developments in trademark and copyright law. Their discussion spanned topics from strategic IP protection to complex cross-border legal challenges in the gaming industry.
The Masterclass was brought to life by Dr. Suzanne Mounir Abdallah, PhD—Assistant Professor at Saint Joseph University Dubai and Partner at OGH Legal—in collaboration with Gulf BPG, OGH Legal, and AIPPI – UAE.

Gulf BPG General Assembly 2025
2025-01-30 | Double Tree by Hilton M Square Hotel
The meeting started by the Chairman’s opening remarks welcoming everyone. A detailed finance update was provided, before moving on to a review of 2024’s key achievements.
A special presentation by HE Dr. Abdulrahman Al Muaini, Assistant Undersecretary for Intellectual Property at UAE MoE re InstaBlock project, was followed by discussions on the challenges faced over the past year and the proposed strategic direction for 2025. Updates on various ongoing projects and a review of social media progress were shared.
The meeting concluded with closing remarks, urging members to stay engaged and contribute actively to ensure the success of this year initiatives and events.

1st F2F Training Session for Dubai Customs - Workshop No.128.
2025-01-28
Brands: LV, Rimowa, Berluti, Danfoss, Beiersdorf & Syngenta

Gulf BPG attends International Customs Day celebration by Dubai Customs
2025-01-27 | InterContinental Festival City Hotel
Dubai Customs marked World Customs Day 2025 under the theme “Committed to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity” by unveiling its new digital platform ‘Shahin’, designed to track shipments and enhance trade security in partnership with key federal agencies.
The event also featured the signing of an MoU with the Dubai International Arbitration Centre to promote alternative dispute resolution in the logistics sector, aligning with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).
H.E. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem highlighted the role of comprehensive economic partnerships in strengthening supply chains and fostering sustainable growth, while H.E. Dr. Abdulla Busenad reaffirmed Dubai Customs’ commitment to advancing digital transformation and protecting trade.
Additional announcements included the “Seamless Inspections” initiative to cut customs processing times and the launch of a new unified contact number (800 1886) to streamline public communication.
Through these efforts, Dubai Customs continues to reinforce Dubai’s position as a global logistics and trade hub.
Gulf BPG delegate attended the celebration and showed support to the initiatives released.

GCC IP Advisory Council Delegation visits Japan for IP discussion
2025-01-21 - 2025-01-25 | Tokyo, Japan
A GCC delegation led by EIPA Chairman H.E. Major General Dr. Abdulqudous Al Obaidli participated in JETRO’s IP Program in Tokyo, Japan. Representatives from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and the Gulf BPG, represented by Chairman Malek Hannouf, joined the discussions on IPR protection with Japanese government agencies (Customs, Police, JPO), brand owners, and IP organizations (IIPPF, CODA and ACA).
The delegation visited the Anti-Counterfeiting Association (ACA), wherein Takero Goto, CODA’s Representative Director and ACA’s Secretary General, shared insights on anti-counterfeiting efforts, piracy challenges, and educational initiatives. Delegates showed strong interest in CODA’s Digital Content Monitoring Center and their Music copyright awareness programs.
A key highlight was an IP Seminar at JETRO Headquarters, where GCC associations presented their IP initiatives and best practices. The delegation also met with JETRO’s Executive VP, Mr. Tomohiro Takashima, and engaged with Tokyo Customs, Police and the Japan Patent Office (JPO) to discuss IP enforcement strategies.
This program reinforced the importance of global collaboration in combating piracy and counterfeiting, along with setting the path for future cooperation in awareness-building and transnational enforcement efforts.

1st Online Training session for AD customs
2025-01-21
Brands: LV, RIMOWA & BERLUTI.

1st Online Training Session for AD DED Inspectors.
2025-01-16
Brands: Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein & Lululemon.

Gulf BPG Participates in GCC- CLDP/PTO Anti-Counterfeiting Workshop in Riyadh
2025-01-15 | Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Gulf BPG, represented by Rima El-Achkar, IP Manager MEA at Louis Vuitton Middle East, participated in the GCC-CLDP/PTO Anti-Counterfeiting Workshop in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The workshop brought together experts to address counterfeiting challenges and explore solutions.
Rima joined the Industry panel moderated by Rasha H. Abdelmagid (USPTO), where they discussed key issues such as the importance of strong partnerships between brand owners and law enforcement, data sharing to combat counterfeiting, and successful customs collaborations leading to major counterfeit seizures.
Rima also highlighted the need for improved complaint systems, stronger enforcement in free zones, transparent procedures for the seizure and destruction of counterfeit goods and stricter penalties, including recycling initiatives for Gulf BPG.

Gulf BPG Attends IP Forum Launching Initiatives as Part of MoEC's IP Ecosystem Project
2025-01-06 | Dubai Science Park

9th Online Training Session for AD DED Inspectors
2024-12-23 | Online
Brand: Messika

Workshop No.127 for Dubai Customs Inspectors
2024-12-18 | Online
Brands: VERSACE, JIMMY CHOO and MICHAEL KORS

Gulf BPG attends the “Second Hiwar“ by IP Sector MoEC - UAE
2024-12-12 | Umm Suqeim Majlis
Gulf BPG delegate attended the “Second Hiwar“ session organized by MoE – IP Sector. The session began with welcoming remarks from H.E Dr. Abdelrahman Almuaini, the UAE Ministry of Economy Undersecretary Assistant for the IP sector, followed by presentations from the relevant Intellectual Property departments at MoE, who shared their achievements for 2024 and the future projects uch as the” Emarati Inspector” and “ InstaBlock “ initiatives. Furthermore an open discussion took place between IP private sector representatives and the MoE, wherein they tackled the challenges and highlighted the importance of Public Private Partnership in order to enhance the IP ecosystem and the legislative framework.
Dr. Almuaini also presented appreciation certificates and awards to the Gulf BPG, represented by Chairman Malek Hannouf, and thanked them for their strategic partnership with MoE.

F2F Workshop for Dubai & Sharjah Authorities
2024-11-28 | Holiday Inn Dubai Festival City
Gulf BPG organized a face-to-face workshop in collaboration with Dubai authorities, including Dubai Customs, DET, Police, and the Criminal Lab, and Sharjah authorities, including DED and Police. The event began with a warm welcome from Rima El-Achkar, on behalf of Malek Hannouf, Gulf BPG Chairman. Rima emphasized the importance of public-private sector cooperation and thanked all departments for their efforts in enhancing IP protection in both Dubai and Sharjah.
The event featured a series of presentations on authentication from various brands and industries. Afterward, delegates participated in interactive sessions, forming small groups to visit stands set up by brand owners. These stands showcased practical demonstrations of distinguishing genuine products from counterfeit ones. A total of 23 brand owners took part in the workshop, which was highly engaging and well-attended.

Gulf BPG Participates in Dubai Fitness Challenge 30x30 activities organized by MoE IP Sector
2024-11-23 | Mushrif Park, Dubai
Ministry of Economy IP sector, in collaboration with EIPA, Gulf BPG and AIPPI – UAE, successfully hosted a cycling session at Mushrif Park, as part of the 30×30 Dubai Fitness Challenge. This event brought together fitness enthusiasts and professionals, providing an opportunity to engage in physical activity while promoting a healthy lifestyle.
The cycling session, which began at 6:00 AM, was a great success, attracting participants from various sectors who came together to embrace the challenge and promote the importance of fitness and well-being. The initiative was part of Dubai’s big effort to encourage its residents to engage in 30 minutes of physical activity for 30 days, helping to foster a more active and healthy community.
We would like to extend our gratitude to all who participated and contributed to making the event a success. We look forward to more opportunities for community engagement and physical well-being in the future.

F2F Training Session for AD DED Inspectors
2024-11-18 08:00 - 17:00 (Asia/Dubai) | AD DED – Abu Dhabi Business Center
Brands: P&G and Hermes.

5th F2F Workshop for AD Customs Inspectors
2024-11-12 | AD Customs – AL Ghuwaifat
Brands: LV, RIMOWA, P&G, WD-40 & HUAWEI

AD DED Initiative to enhance intellectual property protection and combating commercial fraud
2024-11-05 | AD DED Premisses – Abu Dhabi – Wa’ad Hall
Gulf BPG, represented by Mrs. Carole Halasa, attended the AD DED Initiative to enhance intellectual property protection and combat commercial fraud. The event began with a welcome and opening speech by Mr. Mohammed Rashid Al Rumaithi, Director of the Trademark Protection and Commercial Agencies Department. Mrs. Carole delivered the opening remarks on behalf of Malek Hannouf, Chairman of Gulf BPG. Wherein she highlighted AD DED’s efforts in IP protection and the role of IP in shaping the UAE’s knowledge economy. She also addressed the UAE government’s advancements in IP protection, including issuing new laws and establishing a robust IP system supported by multiple initiatives. As a final remark, she shed the light on the importance of private-public sector cooperation in driving innovation and transforming ideas into commercial ventures.

Gulf BPG Participates in the 3rd Arab Conference on Intellectual Property under the theme “Intellectual Property and the Challenges of Artificial Intelligence”
2024-10-30 - 2024-11-01 | Grand Mogador Casablanca, Morocco
Gulf BPG, represented by Chairman Malek Hannouf, participated in the 3rd Arab Conference on Intellectual Property, organized by the Arab Administrative Development Organization (ARADO), the Emirates Intellectual Property Association (EIPA), Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Hassan I University in Settat, and Chouaib Doukkali University.
The conference focused on the importance of intellectual property rights in protecting data, businesses, and innovations using AI technologies. It assessed their impact on the interests of intellectual property rights holders. The event saw participation from over ten countries and was attended by the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research of Morocco, who sponsored the conference, marking it as a significant regional platform.
On the second day of the conference, Malek Hannouf participated in a session titled “From Automation to Digital Solutions: Leading Digital Transformation to Combat Counterfeiting Crimes”, wherein he emphasised on the importance of digitalisation in order to benefit from the AI data analytics. He added the digital transformation is no more an accessory in future strategies, but a mandatory step in a world tech driven.
