UAE authorities send tough message to illegal software users

This raid reflects the commitment of the UAE authorities to fight the illegal use of software to protect the country's developing IT industry. The UAE is one of the leading countries in the Middle East that has effectively reduced illegal software trading by adopting a series of campaigns against violators of copyright laws. The UAE authorities have taken concrete and tough measures to enforce intellectual property rights (IPR) by introducing laws that prescribe stiff penalties for violators. This has resulted in a steep decline in piracy rates in the UAE, from 86 % in 1994 to 36% in 2002.

Scott Butler, CEO of Arabian Antipiracy Alliance (AAA) said, "This raid sends a direct message to end-users that strong action will be taken against violators of copyright laws. The company that we raided violated IPR laws by using illegal software. We have been urging traders and users to offer clear evidence that they are using original software in their systems. These efforts contribute in developing a healthy business environment that encourage foreign investments and foster creativity in software development and usage".

BSA and the UAE Ministry of Information, in coordination with local and international IT companies, have been working jointly to eliminate the trade and usage of illegal software. BSA has recently undertaken a massive public service campaign targeting end-users, to raise awareness about the negative effects of using pirated software in their systems.

Butler added, "The harmful effects of using illegal software are not restricted to users alone. Pirated software trade also affects regional and international software developing companies. As a result, Research and Development budgets in these companies are affected, which in turn affects pricing as well as restricts development of new, innovative software".

"The UAE is a prime examples of the progress other countries in the region can achieve by enforcing copyright protection laws and eliminating software piracy. The country has emerged as the IT hub of the region, with leading international software companies setting up operations in the country to serve the IT needs of the Middle East and neighbouring countries. The UAE's success in drastically bringing down piracy levels highlights the importance of protecting intellectual property rights in order to create a healthy business environment", concluded Butler.