The Riyadh Design Law Treaty, finalized during a diplomatic conference in Riyadh on November 22, 2024, represents a significant milestone in global intellectual property protection. However, it is important to note that the treaty has not yet been implemented in Saudi Arabia. It requires ratification by at least 15 contracting parties before coming into force.
Once ratified, the treaty will introduce a unified legal framework aimed at simplifying the registration process for industrial designs worldwide. Key provisions include standardized application requirements, a 12-month grace period for design disclosure, and the option to include multiple designs in a single application. These measures are expected to reduce administrative burdens, enhance accessibility, and foster innovation across industries.
The treaty also establishes mechanisms for extending deadlines to safeguard designers’ rights, offering greater flexibility in the protection process. By streamlining pathways for international design protection, the treaty is anticipated to significantly benefit designers, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, by encouraging innovation and simplifying access to global markets.
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