Omani frankincense registered as global geographical indication

Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman has achieved a milestone with the international registration of Omani frankincense as a geographical indication (GI) with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), marking the first such recognition in the Gulf region.

The issuance of the international registration certificate reflects the longstanding cultural and commercial significance of frankincense, a product deeply rooted in Omani heritage and widely known in global trade for its authenticity and quality.

A geographical indication (GI) is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities, reputation or characteristics essentially linked to that location. Under WIPO’s international system, GIs are protected across member countries, ensuring that only products genuinely originating from the designated area can use the name.

The registration comes as part of broader efforts to protect Omani frankincense and enhance its market value globally by linking it to its geographical origin and unique characteristics.

This step follows Oman’s accession to the Geneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement, which provides an international framework for protecting geographical indications and appellations of origin beyond national borders.

The recognition represents a significant development in managing national intangible assets, as GI status helps strengthen consumer confidence, improve competitiveness of Omani products and support businesses in leveraging the global reputation of Omani frankincense.