Telephone Numbers
Telephone Numbers
Technology, Media and Telecommunications Laws in Dubai
For detailed information +90 542 381 3868 'Call.
The technology, media, and telecommunication (TMT) industry saw a rapid adoption of digital services and technologies in sectors like online communication, video conferencing, streaming services, and online shopping as a result of the pandemic. However, the ability of suppliers to deliver projects (due to illnesses, travel restrictions, and work-from-home mandates) and create new items (due to supply chain issues) was severely hampered. Meanwhile, legal changes in the TMT sector have continued at a fast pace.
The UAE continues to develop its TMT capabilities in both the corporate and public sectors. TMT companies require industry expertise and experience. The establishment of free zone hubs and special economic zones in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and other Emirates has turned the UAE into a regional hub for numerous firms focused on technology, media, and telecommunications (TMT). It has remained an innovation center, leading the region in various fields. Through its local and international presence, it stays current on technological breakthroughs worldwide. The recent digital expansion has had a significant impact on industries and businesses across the globe.
With technology advancing so rapidly, it is becoming increasingly critical for businesses to stay updated and educated at all touchpoints. To stay ahead of the competition, the telecommunications and media industries have had to constantly innovate while also reinventing their operating models. Blockchain, 5G, and other technology platforms have become game-changers in the world of commerce.
The most common TMT disputes involve intellectual property rights, joint venture disagreements, licensing, information technology implementation programs, competition, merger and acquisition agreements, confidentiality agreements, data-related issues, outsourcing programs, and reputation management issues. The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority ("TRA"), established under the UAE Telecommunications Law, is the primary telecommunications regulator in the UAE.
The following TMT legislation in the UAE is noteworthy.
There is no indication that the coming years will be any less digital. The UAE has signaled its future potential and declared its priority in this area. The degree of adoption of smartphones, the Internet, and social media networks, as well as a robust ICT infrastructure and government policies encouraging digital transformation, are all indicators of the UAE's trend towards digitalization and a digital lifestyle. Translating digital transformation into economic development will be the most formidable challenge for 'Digital runners,' including the UAE, in the next phase. If countries around the world succeed in this tough challenge, they will have achieved a historic gain from digital transformation, which will be reflected in collective additional economic growth.
The rise of social media over the last few decades has significantly impacted how brands interact with customers. Social media not only consumes a significant portion of global advertising spending but also provides an effective tool for firms to engage directly with consumers on a B2C level. With the emergence of social media, a new form of brand advocate—the social media influencer—has appeared. All of this has occurred under the umbrella of media and advertising rules that were not necessarily geared to address how new media is governed. Governments around the world are reacting accordingly, and companies need to remain agile and up-to-date with new rules and regulations.
The fundamental right to the privacy and confidentiality of information and trade secrets is enshrined in the UAE Penal Code. The Cybercrimes Law was enacted in 2012 to keep pace with evolving technological methods and was later revised in 2016 to cover any type of cybercrime that could occur in the UAE. The TRA established the National Cybersecurity Strategy in June 2019 because cybersecurity is a critical component of ensuring a resilient and efficient telecommunications infrastructure. The goal of the National Cybersecurity Strategy is to guarantee that the country is prepared for a cyberattack at the corporate and individual levels, as well as at the regulatory and policy levels.
The access and transmission of sensitive information by employees—such as passwords, email addresses, personal information, phone numbers, home addresses, private details, and financial data—and communication regarding clients and employees via wireless and wired networks are of utmost importance.
The TRA manages and is responsible for the material found on any webpage or website. At the same time, telecommunication companies are required to scan and control the information that travels over their networks. They are also responsible for restricting access and reporting instances of illegal content to the TRA.
Content that violates the public policy and values of UAE law is considered illegal. The TRA provides a non-exhaustive list of what is considered prohibited content, which includes not only morally and financially illicit acts but also those deemed to be harmful to the State.
The TRA has also prohibited the use of proxy servers and VPNs that provide access to prohibited content. It has been stated that VPNs are only permitted if they are not used to access prohibited or protected materials.
The technology, media, and telecommunications (TMT) sector in the Middle East continues to evolve. It has also indicated its future potential and announced its goals to enact additional laws to protect its residents and assist countries worldwide in this regard. According to the Federal National Council (FNC), the UAE has enacted the new federal law regulating media, publications, and internet materials this year.
These rules will be introduced to keep pace with the rapidly changing technological environment and to protect the privacy and data security of those living here. In addition, it has undertaken various initiatives and regulations to increase TMT competencies in both the commercial and public sectors in order to keep pace with the rest of the world. If you need legal assistance, please contact the professional lawyers at World Company Setup Law.
+90 542 381 3868
+971 58 5204103