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Find out moreWelcome 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 editionSana Saleem - Associate - Digital & Data
February 2014
It has been reported that prior to screening in the UAE, approximately 45 minutes were cut from the film, including scenes depicting sexual activity and drug use. In addition, profanities were muted.
Many expressed frustration at the extent of the edits which recently brought this issue to the forefront. Moviegoers reportedly claimed that the cut version left the film, which is one of the most critically acclaimed motion pictures of the year, choppy and almost unintelligible.
In the UAE, traditional media content and digital media content, including television shows and film, is regulated. The key laws and regulations are:
It is standard practice for distributors, in conjunction with the relevant authorities, to preview and cut films in order to comply with local content regulations. The extent of edits will of course depend on the market and are generally subject to editing restrictions imposed by the producer.
In the UAE and other Gulf States, it is not uncommon to cut scenes and language that are contrary to religious and commonly accepted social mores.
Al Tamimi & Company’s Technology, Media & Telecommunications team regularly advises clients on various media sector matters, including content regulation and film distribution. For further information, please contact Sana Saleem (s.saleem@tamimi.com) or Rachael Hammond (r.hammond@tamimi.com).
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