Saudi Arabia has adopted new technology at a rapid pace. From government services to retail purchases and day-to-day communications, the expectations of individuals and businesses relating to technology usage have skyrocketed.
Furthermore, diversification and privatization initiatives in the Kingdom opened the telecommunications sector to private operators, generating new investment opportunities and a great deal of business activity in a previously inaccessible sector.
These rapid changes in technology and communications, coupled with the growing importance of data ownership, privacy, and security, require robust legal support that protects business owners and operators.
Our legal team is very dynamic, regularly participating in global seminars and workshops that address technology matters and legal challenges surrounding the convergence of hardware, data, information technology, internet, telecommunications, and media. We also draw support and knowledge from a vast network of experts in the technology community who greatly enhance the value received by our clients.
We help clients uncover opportunities to commercialize untapped value in their technologies and capitalize on emerging opportunities. We also advise on the legal aspects of data security and privacy, and on contractual issues relating to data management.
We have gained rich knowledge of the Saudi telecom framework which covers the minutest regulatory and administrative details required to successfully operate in the Kingdom. Our Telecom Practice not only covers matters related to mobile and fixed-line operations, but also includes wireless services, VSAT, fiber optics networks, satellite-based services, virtual private networks, and leased line services. We regularly advise both local and overseas telecom operators on various commercial and regulatory issues.
We also act for a number of technology-centric companies including e-commerce and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) providers, both foreign and domestic. Our lawyers are experienced in all aspects of technology and e-commerce transactions, including software and hardware licensing, terms of use, intellectual property and patent protection, and partnership agreements.
Because of our robust business law practice, we also assist technology, e-commerce, and telecom clients with all aspects of corporate law including M & A, business structuring, environmental regulations, employment law issues, in addition to handling complex disputes with shareholders, partners, customers, and suppliers.
Notable telecom & technology projects include
- A leading domestic mobile operator in relation to its USD $3 billion Sharia-compliant financing, to refinance an existing bridge facility and to fund Mobily's business and network build-out plan in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
- An investment company in relation to the bidding process for the second GSM license in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
- A leading international mobile communications provider in securing and reviewing certain agreements concerning large equipment projects in Saudi Arabia
- A leading mobile telecom operator in its USD $300 million dispute with another mobile operator over sharing of revenues. Succeeded in having the parties settle the matter amicably.
- A leading mobile telecom operator in a claim raised by an individual over infringement of patent.
- An investment company partnering with a leading telecom company with respect to large equipment projects in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia including reviewing and advising on certain agreements concerning these projects.
- A consortium formed between foreign telecom companies and Saudi entities in its bid for operating fixed-line services.
- An investment company (part of a consortium with a leading UK mobile company) in the entire process of bidding for the second GSM license in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and on various legal aspects of Saudi law on the bidding process.
- A leading telecom equipment manufacturer on a variety of corporate and contracting issues.