UAE enacts new law on the protection of new plant varieties
27 January 2026
The United Arab Emirates has enacted Federal Law No. 8 of 2025 on the Protection of New Plant Varieties, marking a major update to the jurisdiction’s legal framework for plant breeders’ rights.
The new law repeals Federal Law No. 17 of 2009 and brings the UAE into full alignment with the standards of the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV). It is designed to strengthen breeders’ rights, encourage agricultural innovation and enhance food security and biosecurity strategies, reflecting the UAE’s broader push toward sustainable and innovation-driven agriculture.
Under the new framework, a dedicated Register for New Plant Varieties will be established under the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, providing a centralized system for the registration and protection of new plant varieties. Legal protection has also been expanded to cover all plant genera and species, with clearer criteria for assessing novelty and distinctness.
The law further clarifies the responsibilities of the Registrar and defines the scope of breeders’ rights, offering greater legal certainty for rights holders. Protection will be granted to plant varieties that meet the criteria of being new, distinct, uniform, and stable, with a protection term of 20 years from the grant date for most plant varieties, and 25 years for trees and vines.
To ensure effective implementation, the law introduces strong enforcement measures, including penalties of up to three years’ imprisonment and fines of up to Dh250,000 (US$68,000) for violations.
The enactment of Federal Law No. 8 of 2025 represents a significant development for plant breeders, agribusinesses, research institutions, and investors operating in or planning to enter the UAE market.
- Excel V. Dyquiangco
