1. The definition of a trademark has been broadened to include any visible signs capable of distinguishing the goods or services of one enterprise from those of other enterprises.

2. Protection is afforded to well-known marks. Any mark similar to a third party’s well-known mark will not be accepted for registration, whether or not the well-known mark is registered in Qatar.

3. The term for filing an opposition has been reduced from four months to two months from publication. The term for filing a response to an opposition has also been reduced from four months to two months.

4. A cancellation action based on non-use of the trademark cannot be filed unless the registrant is given notice of such action and given a one-month grace period to use the mark.

5. A trademark can be assigned with or without the goodwill of the enterprise.

6. The Recordal of Assignment of a trademark in which one of the parties is a foreign national will no longer require the consent of the Minister of Economy and Commerce.

7. A collective mark cannot be assigned without the consent of the Industrial Property Office.