Reviewed by Nour Saleem, Registered Trademark & Patent Agent and Dubai Courts IP expert · Last updated September 2026
Quick answer: Trademarks in Kuwait are registered with the Trademark Department of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry under the GCC Trademark Law. Kuwait is the only GCC country outside the Madrid System, so a national filing is required. Each application covers one class, and protection lasts 10 years from filing.
Kuwait Trademark System at a Glance
| Item | Kuwait |
|---|---|
| Trademark office | Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Trademark Department |
| Madrid System | No. Kuwait is the only GCC country not in the Madrid System, so you must file nationally. |
| Opposition period | Opposition period after publication in the official gazette |
| Classes | One class per application |
| Protection | 10 years, renewable |
How to Register a Trademark in Kuwait
- Search and strategy. We search the Kuwaiti register and confirm the class and filing strategy.
- Legalised documents. The power of attorney is legalised up to the Kuwaiti consulate and then at Kuwait's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Start this early: it is usually the slowest step.
- Filing. The application is filed with the Ministry through a registered agent.
- Examination. The mark is examined for formal requirements and conflicts with earlier marks.
- Publication and opposition. Accepted marks are published and third parties can oppose within the statutory period.
- Registration. After the registration fee is paid, the certificate is issued.
Trademark Registration Cost in Kuwait
Official fees in Kuwait are charged per class and at several stages (filing, publication and registration). Contact us for a fixed quotation that includes official fees, translation and legalisation for your mark and classes.
Documents Required
- A clear image of the trademark.
- The list of goods or services in one class.
- A power of attorney legalised up to the Kuwaiti consulate and at the Kuwaiti Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Arabic translation of non-Arabic documents.
Good to Know
- Plan extra time for legalising the power of attorney.
- Marks for prohibited goods, such as alcohol and pork products, cannot be registered.
- A registered mark not used for five consecutive years can be cancelled.
Why File Through NAS & Associates?
- One Dubai team for your UAE and Kuwait filings, in English and Arabic.
- More than 6,400 trademarks handled since 2009, with a network of 190+ associate agents and firms.
- Court-appointed IP expert experience, so every filing is prepared with enforcement in mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Madrid System for Kuwait?
No. Kuwait is the only GCC country that has not joined the Madrid System, so protection requires a national application filed through a local agent.
Why does a Kuwaiti filing take longer to prepare?
Kuwait requires the power of attorney to be legalised at the Kuwaiti consulate and again at the Kuwaiti Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We send you the form and guide you through it.
How long is a Kuwaiti trademark valid?
10 years from the filing date, renewable for further 10-year periods.