Dubai Customs has launched the “Basma (Imprint)” Award to promote innovation and raise awareness about intellectual property rights in alignment with the UAE’s “Year of Community” initiative. The award features two categories, one aimed at the general public and another for students in schools and universities. It encourages young participants to learn about the risks associated with counterfeit goods and violations of intellectual property.

Yousef Ozair Mubarak, the Director of the IPR Department at Dubai Customs, highlighted the organization’s commitment to protecting the rights of trademark owners. This effort is part of Dubai Customs’ broader mission to safeguard society and stimulate sustainable economic growth through compliance and innovation. To achieve this, Dubai Customs regularly conducts workshops, competitions, and campaigns that educate the community about the negative impacts of counterfeit products on health and the economy.

Aisha Harib, Senior Officer for Awareness and Education at the IPR Department, explained that Dubai Customs collaborates with the Ministry of Education to hold an annual Intellectual Property Award for students across the nation. This year, a new category has been introduced for the general public, encouraging wider participation in awareness and innovation related to intellectual property protection as part of the “Year of Community” initiative.

The award criteria recognize outstanding awareness initiatives across three categories. Participants are invited to create a video content campaign for social media, write an article or short story about the societal impact of intellectual property, or produce a podcast that creatively explores intellectual property issues.

Expert guidance in intellectual property protection will be available to participants during the submission process. Entries will be accepted until February 17th, with reviews taking place from March 3rd to March 25th. Winners will be announced during the celebrations for World Intellectual Property Day on April 26th, where they will receive cash prizes.

This initiative aims not only to protect the rights of producers but also to bolster Dubai’s reputation as a global center for creators and innovators. By nurturing a culture of creativity within society, it enhances Dubai’s status as a hub for business excellence.