On 7 January 2025, Saudi Arabia officially acceded to the Geneva Act of the Hague Agreement on the International Registration of Industrial Designs, submitting its instrument of accession to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). This move expands the Hague System’s coverage to 99 countries.
Implications for Designers and Businesses
Starting 7 April 2025, when the agreement enters into force in Saudi Arabia:
- Saudi-based designers and businesses can protect their industrial designs in any of the 99 contracting states by filing a single international application through the Hague System.
- Foreign applicants can now designate Saudi Arabia in their international applications, securing design rights within the country without the need for a separate local filing.
This accession enhances accessibility and efficiency in industrial design protection, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to aligning with global intellectual property standards.
