The UAE enacted a new Federal Law No. 38 of 2021 concerning copyright and neighboring rights (New Law) that replaced the old Federal Law No. 7 of 2002 (Old Law) and came into force in January 2022. The New Law provides a clearer framework in an increasing digital environment for businesses.
What Does the New Copyright Law Protect?
The New Law lists 12 statutory types of works that are protected as copyright, and most notably includes the introduction of “Smart applications, computer programmes and applications, databases and similar works determined by a decision of the Minister.”
The New Law also continues to provide protection for more traditional works, including written works, speeches, plays, musicals, audio and video work or audio visual work, architectural work, art works, applied art, photographic, charts, maps, plans, 3D modelling for geographical and architectural designs, and derivative works. Read more