Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Photo: WAM
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is working hard to become a global leader in the field of innovation. One important way the country is doing this is by encouraging creativity, supporting inventors, and protecting intellectual property (IP) rights. A key player in this effort is the Emirates Science Club (ESC).
The Chairman of ESC, Dr. Eesa Al Bastaki, recently spoke about this during a big international meeting in Geneva. The meeting was the 66th session of the Assemblies of the Member States of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). It had the highest attendance in WIPO's history, with around 1,600 people, including 40 ministers and over 100 heads of intellectual property offices from around the world.
ESC Plays Key Role in Innovation and IP
Dr. Al Bastaki explained that the UAE continues to grow stronger in the world of science and technology. The country is doing this by building a strong intellectual property system, which protects inventors and their ideas. The Emirates Science Club is playing an important role by running special programmes and events for young people, students, inventors, and researchers.
These programmes help teach people about patents, copyright, and other types of IP, while also encouraging them to invent and create. The goal is to make innovation a normal part of life for students and scientists in the UAE.
What Happened at the WIPO Meeting
At the WIPO event, Dr. Al Bastaki shared details about the UAE's efforts to support intellectual property. He highlighted how the Emirates Science Club has become more involved since it became an observer member at WIPO in July 2024. Since then, ESC has taken part in many events hosted by the UAE's Ministry of Economy. The club has also organised special workshops on patent registration and other areas of intellectual property.
Al Bastaki said that this has helped more people in the UAE understand how to protect their inventions. It also supports the country’s vision of moving toward a knowledge-based economy, where ideas and creativity are just as important as oil and natural resources.
18 Intellectual Property Achievements in Two Years
One of the most exciting achievements Dr. Al Bastaki mentioned was that the club has helped register 18 intellectual property rights over the past two years. This is a big success for the club and shows that the UAE is serious about supporting inventors.
The decision to focus on patent achievement as a main strategic goal in 2024 was a turning point. This move was not only about registering inventions but also about creating a system where innovation is supported at all levels—from schools to universities to research centres.
This success is part of the UAE’s bigger plan to become a leader in science, technology, and sustainability.
Supporting Students and Future Innovators
One of the key goals of the Emirates Science Club is to inspire students to be creative. The club runs awareness programmes in schools and universities to help students learn how to turn their ideas into real inventions. They are taught how to apply for patents and how to protect their rights.
ESC also encourages students to think like scientists and innovators. By giving them the right tools and knowledge, the club is building the next generation of UAE inventors.
Importance of Intellectual Property for the UAE
Protecting intellectual property is important for any country that wants to grow through innovation. It makes sure that inventors get credit for their work and can benefit from their ideas.
For the UAE, this is even more important because the country is working to reduce its dependence on oil. Instead, it wants to grow in areas like technology, education, and sustainable development. A strong IP system is necessary to support this shift.
That’s why the Emirates Science Club is helping not just inventors, but also companies and students. They all need to understand IP laws and know how to protect their ideas.
UAE's Com mitment at Global Level
By taking part in major events like the WIPO Assembly, the UAE is also showing the world that it is serious about being a part of the global innovation community.
Dr. Al Bastaki’s participation in Geneva is more than just a speech. It is a message that the UAE wants to cooperate with other countries and share its ideas and achievements.
This global participation helps the UAE build strong partnerships with international organisations and other countries. It also gives UAE inventors a bigger platform to show their work and learn from others.
Innovation is the Future
The Emirates Science Club is helping the UAE take big steps toward becoming a top player in the world of innovation. With its educational programmes, support for young inventors, and strong work in intellectual property, the ESC is building a brighter future for the UAE.
By focusing on knowledge, creativity, and invention, the UAE is sending a clear message: the country believes in innovation and wants to support everyone who has a great idea.
This journey is not only about getting patents or attending global meetings—it is about creating a future where the UAE can lead with smart ideas, talented youth, and global partnerships.
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