Intellectual Property Service

What is Intellectual Property?

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) defines Intellectual Property as “Creations of the mind such as inventions and artistic work, designs and symbols, names and images used in commerce.”

Examples of Intellectual Properties include logos, music works, inventions, books, and designs.

Benefits of Obtaining Intellectual Property Services in Oman

Availing intellectual property services in Oman is highly beneficial for companies as it allows them to stand unique in the market. The benefits include:

• Brand Protection: Registering intellectual property rights provides legal protection against infringement.
• Legal Protection: Companies must register intellectual property rights to obtain legal protection against exploitation and violations.
• Compliance: The regulatory framework for intellectual property in Oman ensures compliance and offers legal remedies like compensation and confiscation of goods.
• Innovation Promotion: Intellectual property rights promote innovation and creativity, offering a competitive advantage and attracting entrepreneurs and investors.
• Market Expansion: These rights facilitate market expansion, benefiting potential partners, investors, and the licensing process. Intellectual properties add value to assets, offer licensing opportunities, and are internationally recognized.

Regulatory Framework of Intellectual Property in Oman

The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion governs the legal regulations of intellectual properties in Oman. These laws offer numerous opportunities to safeguard intangible assets for the 3.6 million people of Oman. Oman is a member of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Since 1995, Oman has been a member of the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property (TRIPS).

Types of Intellectual Property in Oman

Acquiring intellectual property rights is highly useful for starting and protecting a business in Oman. The types include:

a) Trademark Registration in Oman:
A trademark is any mark, symbol, or sign capable of identifying and distinguishing goods and services. Trademarks include words, symbols, names, logos, sounds, etc. Trademark registration in Oman is valid for an initial period of 10 years and can be renewed. To register a valid trademark, goods and services must be distinguishable. Certain marks that are offensive or similar to government logos are banned from registration. Trademark owners can take legal action against misuse.

b) Trade Secrets in Oman:
Manufacturing and production entities deal with specific processes, designs, formulas, and commercial methods that must be confidential. These are called trade secrets. Oman has established industrial zones for manufacturing industries to register their trade secrets.

c) Copyrights in Oman:
Oman is a member of the Berne Convention for copyrights and other international agreements. The Law of Protection of Copyright and Neighbouring Rights regulates copyrights in Oman. Copyrights protect the rights of writers, creators, and individuals in art and culture. This right is granted for the lifetime of the copyright holder plus 50 years. To obtain approval, the work must be deposited at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

d) Patents in Oman:
A patent is a legal document that provides rights to the holder of an invention for a certain period. An invention is eligible for a patent if it is new, involves an innovative step, and is industrially applicable. The invention must not be revealed, must not be obvious, and should be possible to manufacture and use in all industries. Certain things like scientific discoveries, theories, and mathematical methods are not regarded as inventions and cannot be patented. Patents in Oman are granted for 20 years from the date of filing.

Services Provided Under Intellectual Property in Oman

The registration procedure, obtaining approval certificates, and meeting necessary requirements are the services provided under intellectual property services in Oman. Service providers assist applicants in each step, making consultancy firms essential for companies.

Sanad Services Center, one of the leading business consultants, can assist you. Our business advisors are well-versed in the Omani framework and will ease the process of obtaining IP services for your business. To know more about the process, contact us today. We’d be happy to assist you.