Saudi Arabia: SAIP Issues Implementing Regulations for Geographical Indications

Saudi Arabia has taken another step toward strengthening the protection of geographical indications (GIs) following the approval of the Implementing Regulations of the Geographical Indications Protection System by the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP). The regulations were adopted pursuant to Board Resolution No. 2026/39/01 dated April 30, 2026 (13/11/1447H), following the promulgation of the Geographical Indications Protection System under Royal Decree No. M/102 dated November 17, 2025 (26/5/1447H). As published in the Official Gazette (Umm Al-Qura), SAIP will begin receiving GI applications once the system and its implementing regulations enter into force. Examination of applications will commence after the Authority approves and publishes the applicable official fees. The new regulations outline the procedural and substantive requirements governing the registration and protection of geographical indications in the Kingdom. They are designed to safeguard names and signs associated with products whose qualities, reputation, or characteristics are essentially linked to a specific geographic origin. The framework also clarifies that geographical indications may not consist of generic or commonly used product names and must be sufficiently distinctive to avoid misleading consumers as to the true origin of the goods. The move forms part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to modernize its intellectual property regime and encourage the recognition and protection of locally connected products and industries.