Application success rate at Saudi Arabia’s SAIP
In Saudi Arabia, trademark applications are managed by the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP), specifically through its Department of Trademarks.
Over the past five years, Saudi Arabia has achieved an average trademark registration success rate of 62.94%. While not among the very highest globally, this figure represents a solid and stable performance, especially considering the increasing volume of applications filed during this period. The consistency of approval rates reflects a relatively reliable system for brand protection in the region.
Comparison to regional and global averages
With a success rate nearing 63%, Saudi Arabia performs well above the global average and outpaces many major economies, such as the United States (56.91%), Australia (52.52%), and the Philippines (51.84%).
Regionally, Saudi Arabia ranks favorably, though it still trails top performers like Qatar (89.02%) and the United Arab Emirates (80.27%). Nonetheless, Saudi Arabia's steady success rate reinforces its position as a strong jurisdiction for trademark protection in the Middle East.
Find out more about how this trademark office compares globally in our full report on trademark success rates worldwide.
Country | Office code | Success rate |
|---|---|---|
Saudi Arabia | SAIP | 62.94% |
Qatar | MOCI | 89.02% |
United Arab Emirates | Ministry of Economy | 80.27% |
The United States | USPTO | 56.91% |
The European Union | EUIPO | 90.80% |
Explaining Saudi Arabia’s trademark performance
Streamlined application procedures: SAIP has introduced several digital services and automated systems in recent years, improving both the speed and clarity of the registration process.
Balanced examination practices: The authority performs substantive examinations that assess distinctiveness and potential conflicts, but the criteria applied appear to be fair and consistent, contributing to Saudi Arabia’s relatively high approval rates.
Commitment to IP reform and international alignment: Saudi Arabia’s growing alignment with international IP frameworks and its push for legal modernization under Vision 2030 have enhanced predictability and investor confidence in the system.
How to maximize your chances of registration success in Saudi Arabia
Given the relatively low average success rate of 63%, registering a trademark in Saudi Arabia requires some preparation and understanding of SAIP procedures. To improve your likelihood of approval, it’s recommended to begin with a comprehensive trademark search to identify any potential conflicts. Ensure that your mark is distinctive and not merely descriptive, and clearly define the goods and services associated with your application.
Partnering with a trademark attorney familiar with the SAIP landscape can significantly improve your chances. They can help anticipate objections, prepare your application thoroughly, and represent you throughout the process if issues arise.
If you are currently preparing to submit your first trademark application, we’ve put together a detailed guide on how to strengthen your chances of success, with multiple pieces of advice directly from our trademark lawyers with years of experience. You can also take advantage of Trama’s free lawyer’s check to receive expert feedback on your trademark and guidance on the best steps forward.
