The appointment of the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) as an International Searching Authority (ISA) and International Preliminary Examining Authority (IPEA) under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) offers several significant advantages for applicants from Arabic-speaking countries. According to Jehad Ali Hasan, CEO of JAH Intellectual Property in Doha, these are the benefits:  

• Language Advantage: SAIP, being a Saudi Arabian authority, is well-equipped to provide patent search and examination services in Arabic. This linguistic advantage can significantly streamline the patent application process for Arabic-speaking inventors and businesses, as they can directly communicate with the examining authority in their native language. 

• Cultural Understanding: SAIP’s deep understanding of the cultural and legal nuances of the region can lead to more accurate and efficient patent examination. This can result in quicker processing times and fewer objections or rejections due to misunderstandings. 

• Regional Expertise: SAIP’s location in the Middle East provides it with a unique perspective on regional technological trends and market needs.  

• Enhanced IP Protection: by strengthening the IP ecosystem in the region, SAIP’s new role can encourage innovation and creativity. This can lead to increased investment in research and development, ultimately driving economic growth. 

• Stimulating Innovation: By providing a more efficient and accessible patent system, SAIP can encourage innovation and entrepreneurship. This can lead to the development of new technologies and products, which can drive economic growth.  

• Attracting Foreign Investment: A robust and efficient IP system can attract foreign investment. By offering world-class IP services, SAIP can position Saudi Arabia as a global innovation hub. 

“SAIP’s appointment as an ISA and IPEA is expected to have a profound impact on the IP landscape in Saudi Arabia and the broader region,” he said. 

His colleague, Mohcine Fattah, an IP senior director at the same firm, said: “SAIP’s capacity to conduct searches and examinations in Arabic will significantly impact the patent application process for regional inventors and businesses in that Arabic-speaking inventors and businesses can directly submit their patent applications in Arabic, once allowed, without the need for translation or the risk of misinterpretation. Even more, SAIP’s ability to understand and process applications in Arabic can lead to faster processing times. On the other hand, by conducting searches and examinations in Arabic, SAIP can ensure a more accurate and thorough assessment of patent applications. Eventually, a well-examined and granted patent provides stronger protection for inventions, which can encourage further innovation.” 

- Excel V. Dyquiangco