Dubai Design and Fashion Council (DDFC) and the Ministry of Economy have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the protection of intellectual property rights, and against intellectual rights violations, in a signing ceremony held in Dubai Design District.

His Excellency Eng Mohammed Ahmed Bin Abdul Aziz Al Shehhi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy for Economic Affairs in the United Arab Emirates and Dr Amina Al Rustamani, Chairperson of Dubai Design and Fashion Council signed the agreement.

The ceremony was signed in the offices of DDFC, attended by representatives from the Ministry of Economy, and the Japan External Trade Organisation in the UAE, and representatives from the Brand Owners Protection Group, in addition to representatives from the French Embassy in the UAE and several French design companies.

The MoU includes a general framework for the development of a bilateral partnership between the Ministry of Economy and the Dubai Design and Fashion Council, specifically about the protection of intellectual property rights.

His Excellency Eng. Mohammed Ahmed Bin Abdul Aziz Al Shehhi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy for Economic Affairs, said: “This MOU is within the framework of the Ministry’s dedication to strengthen partnerships with various federal and local authorities. H.E also added: “DDFC worked effortlessly to create an open and inviting environment for innovation and design. It includes some of the best minds in the fields of Design and Fashion and is crucial for the support of creative businesses and a thriving, innovative economy.”

H.E also explained that: “this MoU would strengthen the existing frameworks of cooperation in the field of intellectual property, which we believe is the cornerstone of the growth and sustainability of the creative industry.” He also stressed that this memorandum is a platform of great importance as it encourages an exchange of expertise and knowledge and raises awareness on the significance of intellectual property rights.”

Dr Amina Al Rustamani, Chairperson of DDFC also commented: “This agreement is a testament to the emphasis the government of the UAE and the Dubai Design and Fashion Council put on intellectual property. Protecting the intellectual properties of our nation's human resources will excel our talents into continuous innovation and creation. Besides, it motivates international companies to participate actively and engage with UAE companies and designers”.

She also added: “The council is committed to raising the profile of the UAE as a regional and global destination for design, and this commitment requires the cooperation and partnership with the Ministry of Economy, the authority for all matters relating to commercial and economic activities in the UAE.” 

This agreement aims to achieve mutual collaboration between the Ministry and the Council, through an Intellectual property programme, which includes events and workshops designed to support the design and creative communities in the UAE.