The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has confirmed in Madrid (Marks) Notification No. 243 that Saudi Arabia deposited its instrument of accession to the Madrid Protocol on July 8, 2026. The Protocol will enter into force for Saudi Arabia on October 8, 2026. From that date, applicants from other Madrid System members will be able to designate Saudi Arabia in an international application or subsequent designation, while Saudi rights holders will be able to seek trademark protection abroad through the same system. Saudi Arabia has also declared an 18-month time limit for notifying provisional refusals and will apply individual fees.
The accession gives international brands a more centralized route for filing and managing trademark portfolios that include Saudi Arabia, and it offers Saudi businesses a practical channel for expanding protection overseas. It does not remove the need to prepare for examination under Saudi law. Applicants should still review clearance searches, goods and services specifications, possible objections and local representation requirements before filing; businesses planning a Saudi launch in late 2026 can use the coming months to align their base applications and designation strategy.
