In compliance with its mandate to unify all IP related matters under one authority, in the latest development, patents, layout designs of integrated circuits, plant varieties and industrial designs previously managed by King Abdul Aziz City of Science and Technology, have now been transferred under the umbrella of the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property.
Furthermore, all Committees which hear on and decide on legal matters of opposition, infringement, appeals, and validity are also now under the jurisdiction of SAIP.
With this update, SAIP showcases its efforts as a self-funded agency with consolidated enforcement power and streamlined procedures. It is worth noting that SAIP has been very active since its inception in late 2017, and has signed two patent prosecution highway agreements with the United States Patent and Trademark Office and the Korean Intellectual Property Office.
Saudi Arabia shows its commitment to develop and establish a competent IP system and demonstrates its awareness of the strategic importance of IP on the country’s economic development.
Patent Protection Framework in Saudi Arabia
Equivalent Search
Official search among granted and published patents is possible by patentee name, title, subject matter, priority/PCT number
Examination
As to form, novelty, inventive step and industrial applicability
Publication
Patents are published in the Official Gazette after substantive examination and before grant
Opposition
No provisions
Annuities
Due annually and is payable the first 3 months of each calendar year following the year the patent application was filed. 3 months grace period for late payment with a surcharge
Protection Term
20 years from the international filing date
Should you have any questions, or require any additional information, please contact us at news@sabaip.com