Gulf BPG

Webinar: Introduction of the WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Center
2024-09-09 | Online
Gulf BPG hosted a webinar featuring the WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Centre, Malek Hannouf welcomed everyone and gave the floor to Mrs. Chiara Accornero – Legal Officer, IP Disputes and Mr. Amer Abu-Sham, Legal Case Manager, IP Disputes Section.
Mrs. Chiara thanked Gulf BPG for giving this opportunity and started by introducing their services which offers time effective and cost efficient alternative dispute resolution (ADR) options, such as mediation, arbitration, expedited arbitration, and expert determination to enable private parties to settle their domestic or cross-border commercial disputes.
She highlighted that the WIPO Centre is international and specializes in IP and technology disputes and a global leader in the provision of domain name dispute resolution services under the WIPO-designed UDRP.
Mr. Amer then gave several examples on WIPO Mediation of a trademark dispute for consumer goods, distribution dispute, trademark dispute in the telecom sector and trademark dispute for luxury goods which was resolved in settlement agreements.
The attendees demonstrated a high level of engagement, and their valuable contributions were greatly appreciated. Malek Hannouf expressed his gratitude to Chiara and Amer and confirmed ongoing support and collaboration for future initiatives

Meet The Authorities - Qatar Ministry of Commerce and Industry
2024-09-12 | Online via Teams
Gulf BPG hosted the 4th “Meet the Authority” session, where Chairman Malek Hannouf started the meeting by welcoming representatives from Qatar’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry, including Mrs. Amna Jabir Al Kuwari, Director of the Intellectual Property Rights Protection Department, and Mrs. Aisha Ali S A Namlan, Head of Inspection and Dispute Settlement – Intellectual Property Protection.
Mrs. Amna Al Kuwari expressed gratitude to Gulf BPG for organizing the meeting and emphasized the importance of collaboration before introducing Mrs. Aisha Al Namlan to begin her presentation.
Mrs. Aisha Al Namlan proceeded with her presentation, outlining the structure of the Intellectual Property Rights Protection Department, as well as the international treaties, laws, and regulations that govern the protection of intellectual property rights within the Ministry.
Following the presentation, a productive Q&A session took place, during which Gulf BPG members discussed their challenges and provided valuable suggestions on various topics, including:

Enforcement procedures related to infringement of intellectual property rights, including periodic inspection campaigns for facilities.
Penalties resulting from infringement of intellectual property rightsز
Cooperating with other departments in the Ministry, such as the Consumer Protection Departmentز
Sharing information regarding seizures with brand owners through a report containing information, including the quantity of seized goods.
Cooperation with Qatar Customs – notifications.
A suggestion on considering moving the sized products from the trader shop/warehouse to a facility managed by MoCI until receiving the ruling and looking for environmental friendly destruction options or recycling.

The meeting concluded with a final request from Mrs. Aisha to provide additional training sessions, whether in legal training or authentication training from Gulf BPG brands, to assist the authorities in enhancing their effectiveness. Malek Hannouf confirmed that Gulf BPG will continue to support the provision of these requested training sessions and expressed gratitude to everyone for attending and participating in the meeting.

6th Training session for AD customs
2024-09-17 | Online
Participated Brands: WD-40 & Hyundai Mobis.

7th Online Training Session for AD DED Inspectors
2024-09-23 | Online
Brands: Luxottica Middle East FZE & PUMA

Gulf BPG IP Forum 2024: Glimpse on the future of IP
2024-10-01 | Museum of The Future
At the stunning Museum of the Future in Dubai, the Brand Owners Protection Group organized the “IP Forum 2024: Glimpse on the Future of IP” under the patronage of the Ministry of Economy. The event was graced by esteemed guests, including H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy; H.E. Alia bint Abdulla Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship; H.E. Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan, Deputy Chief of Police and General Security in Dubai; H.E. Abdulla Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy; and H.E. Khalfan Juma Belhoul, CEO of Dubai Future Foundation.
Opening speeches by H.E. Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan, H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, H.E. Khalfan Juma Belhoul, and Malek Hannouf, Chairman of Gulf BPG, emphasized the importance of innovation and the crucial role of intellectual property in fostering it. They highlighted the need for collaboration to create a brighter future for IP.
Following the opening remarks, an awards ceremony recognized strategic partners and sponsors for their invaluable support in making the event a success.
A significant moment during the forum was the signing of a strategic agreement between the Ministry of Economy and the Dubai Future Foundation, reflecting a strong commitment to enhancing innovation and protecting intellectual property rights. This collaboration aims to foster a robust business environment and support creators.
The second edition of the IP Forum proved to be an incredible gathering, Panel discussions and keynote speeches by esteemed speakers explored a range of vital topics that are shaping the future of intellectual property. Discussions spanned the impact of technological advancements, sustainability, collaboration between the public and private sectors, and effective strategies for combating counterfeiting. The insights shared were both thought-provoking and inspiring!
Attendees also enjoyed various side activities in the foyer, including sponsor booths, a pledge tree, and a Dubai Customs VR booth, which provided excellent networking opportunities.
With around 300 attendees, the event was vibrant and dynamic, perfectly complemented by the unique setting of the venue.
Together, we’re paving the way for a brighter future in intellectual property!

GCC IP Training Centre webinar on "The Importance of Intellectual Property and its Economic Impact on the Public and Private Sectors"
2024-10-14 | Online via Teams
Gulf BPG members attended a webinar titled “The Importance of Intellectual Property and Its Economic Impact on the Public and Private Sectors,” organized by The GCC Intellectual Property Training Centre. This webinar highlighted the critical role intellectual property (IP) plays in today’s economy and its significance for both public and private sectors.
Eng. Rashid Al Owehan, the Controller of Trademarks and Patents at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in Kuwait provided valuable insights into how intellectual property can drive innovation and economic growth.
He emphasized that strong IP protection encourages creativity and investment, benefiting not only individual businesses but also the broader economy. Eng. Al Owehan discussed the various forms of intellectual property, including trademarks, patents, and copyrights, and explained their relevance in safeguarding innovations and ensuring fair competition in the market.

4th F2F Training Session for AD Customs Inspectors
2024-10-15 | AD Customs – Al Ain Customs Training Institute
Gulf BPG participated in a face-to-face session at Al Ain Customs Training Institute, several brands participated among which Kenvue, LV, RIMOWA, NISSAN, WD-40.

8th Online Training Session for AD DED Inspectors
2024-10-17 | Online
Brands: Philip Morris International & Bosch.

Gulf BPG participates in AD Customs 3rd Workshop for Shipping and Clearance Companies
2024-10-22 | Online
Gulf BPG participated in the AD Customs 3rd Workshop for shipping and clearance companies. Represented by board member Bassel El Turk who delivered a presentation provided an in-depth explanation of the new legislation, emphasizing its objectives and key provisions.
The workshop covered several fundamental adjustments introduced by the New Trademark Law in the UAE. It highlighted how the law expands the scope of trademark protection, including provisions for non-traditional marks such as sounds and scents. Participants gained insights into the enhanced enforcement measures that strengthen mechanisms for combating counterfeiting and infringement. Additionally, the discussion included an overview of the streamlined registration process, which aims to simplify and make the trademark registration more efficient for businesses.
The session provided valuable insights into the key changes and how they impact businesses in the region. Participants engaged in informative discussions about compliance, enforcement, and the implications for their operations.

MENA Vis Moot Launch Event
2024-10-22 | Park Hyatt, Dubai, UAE
Gulf BPG attended the launch of the MENA Vis Moot, co-organized by the Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC) and the Commercial Law Development Program, U.S. Department of Commerce.
This significant event featured opening remarks from Jehad Abdulrazzaq Kazim, Eric Ives, and Prof. Qusay Al-Falahi.
A highlight of the event was a fireside chat with Prof. Dr. Mohamed Abdel Wahab C.Arb, FCIArb, who shared his expert insights on alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in the Middle East. Moderated by Erin Miller Rankin, Vice President of the DIAC Arbitration Court, this discussion offered valuable perspectives on the region’s arbitration landscape.
The launch event brought together legal professionals and aspiring dispute resolution experts, all focused on analysing the 2024-25 Vis Moot case. This marks the beginning of the journey towards the 32nd Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot in Vienna, scheduled for April 2025.

Gulf BPG Participates in the GNIPA 2024 summit in Hangzhou, China
2024-10-23 | Hangzhou International Expo Centre North Star Hotel, China
Gulf BPG, represented by board member Mr. Motasem Abu Ghazaleh, participated in the GNIPA 2024 summit in Hangzhou, where he addressed a distinguished audience of IP officials focused on harmonization.
His presentation showcased Gulf BPG’s achievements over the past 20 years, from its founding in 2005 to the present day. The audience was highly impressed and enthusiastic about Gulf BPG’s initiatives.
The summit agenda included updates on harmonization, recent developments from various regions, and a panel discussion on trademarks.

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.

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.

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

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.

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 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 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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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 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.
