Nick O’Connell

Rise of Generative AI

Welcome to the latest edition of Law Update titled “Rise of Generative AI.”

In this edition, we dive into the dynamic world of Technology, Media, and Telecommunications (TMT) across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. TMT continues to play a vital role in positioning the region as an international business and social hub, driving significant growth and innovation.

Our focus in this Law Update is on the sector’s ongoing potential to advance and propel the region toward a more digital economy. We explore the benefits of embracing a digital transformation and how local authorities have responded by enhancing regulations to accommodate the evolving TMT landscape.

This edition covers a range of topics, including – the new Telecommunications & Information Technology Law in Saudi Arabia, the intricacies of trademarks in the Metaverse, and the legal challenges faced by the video game industry. Additionally, we take a regional perspective, discussing jurisdictions such as Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, and Bahrain to provide a comprehensive understanding of the TMT landscape.

We hope you thoroughly enjoy this packed issue of Law Update, filled with captivating articles that address key legal issues within a vital sector for the region.

Read the full edition

The leading law firm in the Middle East & North Africa region.

Nick O’Connell

Partner, Head of Digital & Data - Saudi Arabia

Biography

Nick has been with Al Tamimi & Company for about ten years, initially specialising in intellectual property, but for most of his time with the firm as a key member of the Technology, Media and Telecommunications team. Nick’s practice area includes technology transactions (including procurement, software licensing, consultancy services and outsourcing), technology and intellectual property aspects of corporate and commercial transactions, privacy and data protection, e-commerce, media and advertising, and telecommunications. Nick is the author for the UAE chapter of Data Protection & Privacy, 3rd Edition (the Sweet & Maxwell International Series).

Recent Experience

An international telecommunications company in respect of local law considerations relating to the proposed launch of a mobile app for third party remittance and mobile top-up services;
A major financial services provider in respect of regional data protection compliance;
Various international healthcare and education sector technology providers in respect of local government procurement requirements, and associated contractual negotiations;
Global internet data centre providers in respect of the regional regulatory environment for the establishment and operation of data centres and cloud computing operations;
A global social media platform operator in respect of regional content regulation and risks associated with the proposed roll-out of a curated content offering;
An oil & gas sector technology provider in respect of a dispute involving rights in software code developed in the course of a project;
A number of local banks with regard to a variety of operational technology agreements, including data hosting, software licences, annual maintenance agreements, mobile device applications, prepaid card systems, security and communications.