The industry of technology, media, and telecommunications (TMT) saw rapid adoption of digital services and technologies as a result of the pandemic in sectors including online communication and videoconferencing technologies, streaming services, and online shopping. However, the suppliers’ capacity to deliver projects (due to diseases, travel constraints, and work-from-home duties) as well as create new items was severely hampered (due to supply chain issues). Meanwhile, the legal change in the TMT sector continued at a rapid speed.
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 transformed the UAE into a regional hub for numerous firms centered on technology, media, and telecommunications (TMT). It has remained an innovation hotspot, leading the area in various fields. It is kept up to date on worldwide technology breakthroughs through a local and international presence. The recent digital expansion has had a significant influence on sectors and enterprises all around the world.
With technology evolving at such a quick pace, it is becoming increasingly critical for businesses to stay current and educated across all touchpoints. To stay ahead of the competition, the telecoms and media sectors have had to reinvent their operating models while continually innovating. Blockchain, G5, and other technology platforms have been game changers in the world of commerce.
The most common TMT disputes are over intellectual property rights, joint venture disputes, licensing, information technology implementation programs, competition, merger and acquisition agreements, non-disclosure agreements, data-related issues, outsourcing programs, and reputation management issues. The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (“TRA”), established under the UAE Telecommunications Law, is the primary telecoms regulator in the UAE.
Laws Related to TMT in the UAE
The following TMT legislations are noteworthy in the UAE.
- UAE Federal Law No. 15 of 1980 (the “PPL”) governs printing and publishing in the UAE.
- UAE Federal Law No. 3 of 1987 (also known as the “UAE Penal Code”).
- UAE Federal Law No. 3 of 2002, as modified, governs the structure of the telecommunications industry (the “UAE Telecoms Law”).
- UAE Federal Law No. 5 of 2012, as amended by UAE Federal Law No. 12 of 2016 and UAE Federal Decree No. 2 of 2018 (the “Cyber-Crime Law”).
- The National Media Council is governed by UAE Federal Law No. 11 of 2016 (the “NMC Law”).
- Resolution No. 30 of the NMC Board of Directors of 2017 (the “Media Content Regulation”).
- Regulation of Electronic Media Activity by the NMC.
There is nothing to suggest that the next years will be less digital. The UAE has stated its future potential and proclaimed its priority in this area. The degree of adoption of smartphones, Internet, and social media networks, as well as the solid ICT infrastructure and government policies that encourage digital transformation, are all indicators of the UAE’s trend toward digitalization and the digital lifestyle. The translation of digital transformation into economic development will be the most difficult challenge for the ‘Digital sprinters,’ including the UAE, in the coming phase. If countries around the world succeed in this challenge, they will have created a historic gain from digital transformation, which will be reflected in collective additional economic growth.
Social Media Influencer Laws
The rise of social media over the last few decades has significantly impacted how brands interact with customers. Not only is social media consuming a significant portion of global advertising expenditures, but it is also providing an effective means 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 – emerged. All of this occurred under the cover of media and advertising rules that were not necessarily geared to deal with how new media is managed. Governments throughout the world are reacting accordingly, and companies must remain nimble and up to speed with new rules and regulations on a constant basis.
Cyber Security
The fundamental right to privacy and confidentiality of information and trade secrets is entrenched in the UAE Penal Code. The Cyber Crime Law was passed in 2012 to keep up with emerging technological methods, and it was later revised in 2016 to include all sorts of cybercrime that may occur in the UAE. The TRA created the National Cybersecurity Strategy in June 2019 because cybersecurity is a critical component of ensuring a resilient and efficient telecommunications infrastructure. The National Cybersecurity Strategy’s goal is to guarantee that the country is prepared for a cyberattack on a regulatory and policy level, as well as a commercial and individual level.
Workers’ access to and submission of sensitive information such as passwords, email addresses, personal information, phone numbers, home addresses, proprietary information, financial data, and communication about customers and employees through wireless and wired networks is crucial.
Internet Content Laws
The TRA governs and is accountable for the material found on any webpage or website. Concurrently, telecom companies have been required to screen and control the information that goes via their network. They are also responsible for limiting access and reporting any instances of illegal content to the TRA.
Content is considered illegal if it breaches UAE law’s public policy and values. The TRA provides a non-exhaustive list of what is considered prohibited content, which includes not just morally and financially unlawful actions, but also those that are deemed detrimental to the State.
The TRA has also barred the use of proxy servers and VPNs that provide access to forbidden content. It has been stated that VPNs are only permitted if they are not used to access banned or unprotected material.
The Final Words
The Middle East’s technology, media, and telecommunications (TMT) sector continue to thrive. It has also stated its future potential and proclaimed its goals for enacting additional laws to safeguard inhabitants and assist countries worldwide in doing so. According to the Federal National Council, the UAE enacted new federal legislation this year governing the media, publications, and internet material (FNC).
These rules will be enacted in order to keep up with the rapidly changing technology landscape and to protect the privacy and data security of its inhabitants. It has also taken several initiatives and passed regulations to stay up with the rest of the world by increasing TMT competencies in both the commercial and public sectors. If you want legal assistance, please contact the professional lawyers at MAAF Legal.
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