18 March 2015
Dubai's efforts to protect trademarks win applause from global beauty brand

Dubai - The intellectual property (IP) environment in Dubai and the efforts of the Department of Economic Department (DED) to protect trademarks have won a special recognition from COTY, a global leader among beauty brands and consumer franchises.

The Commercial Compliance and Consumer Protection (CCCP) sector in DED was recently honoured by the Vice President Global Brand Protection of COTY, who visited Dubai after the city was ranked number one in the world in protecting the company's trademarks.

COTY represents many of the world's leading beauty and fragrance brands such as Adidas, Balenciaga, Calvin Klein, Chopard, Davidoff, Guess, Nautica, Roberto Cavalli and Chloe. The company has a global presence spanning North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Middle East with its regional operations based out of the Jebel Ali Free Zone.

"While Dubai's unique demography and prosperity are major drivers of a thriving retail business, best practices adopted in trademark protection have led to the high concentration of the world's best known brands in the city. DED is proud to see that leading multinationals like COTY recognise our efforts in protecting their rights," commented Mohammed Ali Rashed Lootah, Chief Executive Officer of CCCP.

Lootah said CCCP is planning to expand its strategic communication and relations with trademark owners to expand IP protection efforts to different levels. "Protection of intellectual property is a key component of investor-friendliness and business integrity. DED particularly focuses on protecting IP and trademarks because Dubai's reputation as a competitive business hub and investment destination is built on the principles of free and fair trade."

"I would like to express my appreciation for the excellent work" stated Guido Baumgartner, VP Global Brand Protection. DED team delivered extraordinary efforts to fight against counterfeit traffic and to protect the human life. We are proud and honored to work with such a professional authority.

DED seeks to protect brands and trademarks against violations in accordance with the policy of the Dubai Government to promote economic activity and uphold intellectual property. CCCP maintains regular communication with trademark owners and businesses to build and update awareness on trademarks. Organised and random inspections are also held to check violations and consumer complaints are monitored as part of maintaining a close watch on the market.

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About Department of Economic Development (DED)
The Department of Economic Development (DED) is the government body entrusted to set and drive the economic agenda of the emirate of Dubai, UAE. DED supports the structural transformation of Dubai into a diversified, innovative service-based economy that aims to improve the business environment and accelerate productivity growth.

DED and its agencies develop economic plans and policies, identify and support the growth of strategic sectors, and provide services to domestic and international investors and businesses.

For further information, please contact:
Faisal Shamsudheen                
Government Communication Division,
Department of Economic Development           
Tel: (971 4) 361 3070
Email: faisal.pathiasseri@dubaided.gov.ae    

© Press Release 2015