Clyde & Co has strengthened its intellectual property capabilities in the Middle East, setting up a direct filing office in Manama, Bahrain’s capital city, through its affiliated entity, Clyde IP Services.
The new office, which opened on Aug. 9, is expected to help the firm increase its trademark and patent-filing capabilities in the Middle East.
The firm’s IP practice in the Middle East spans 25 years and offers clients legal support related to IP issues in 23 countries, including some in neighbouring North Africa. Their services are provided through a Dubai-based central hub, in collaboration with an office network and corresponding agents in the region.
Clyde & Co’s IP group, which includes nine native Arabic speakers, comprises specialists from some of the world’s leading IP practices, including Australia, Hong Kong, Japan and the UK.
The establishment of the Bahrain office is part of Clyde & Co’s recent efforts to build up its IP practice worldwide. In July, it appointed David Wilkinson as a partner and head of IP practice in London. Clasis Law, Clyde & Co's associated firm in India, has also recently introduced an IP practice.
“The aim is for Clyde & Co to be seen as the preeminent IP firm around the world, as it already is for insurance, shipping and aviation matters,” said Rob Deans, the firm’s Middle East and North Africa IP head, in a statement.
