Top 10 Most Influential TMT Lawyers in United Arab Emirates 2023

Technology, media, and Telecommunications (TMT) is a fast-paced and expanding sector requiring expert legal advice. In the United Arab Emirates, where we have an accelerate technology ecosystem, this sector has witnessed an exponential growth, both from startup enterprises and international corporations. This makes TMT lawyers increasingly important especially with regulatory changes and complex cross-border transactions. This article profiles some of the distinct TMT lawyers in the UAE obtained from leading sources in the emirates.

These lawyers are recognized for their notable contributions to TMT law practice, especially in addressing unique regulatory and commercial issues in technology, media, and telecommunications. Each of them has proven distinct in their sphere of practice, and this article will provide a brief profile of them and their firms. These individuals have been instrumental in shaping the TMT sector in the region through their legal expertise. From advising on matters of data protection to handling transactions in the tech industry, these lawyers bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to their respective fields.

Found below are summaries of their achievements and major contributions to TMT in the UAE and beyond. Each section provides a basic bio with links to their respective law firms, further showcasing the depth of their backgrounds, diverse specialties, and their measurable influence within the TMT sector in the UAE.

Kellie Blyth

Notable for her Baker McKenzie LLP affiliation, Kellie Blyth is well-regarded in the TMT sector for her groundbreaking advisory roles to financial institutions and government entities on technology matters. Apart from her e-payment prowess, she is praised for her consultancy for technology and telecom companies on licensing and contractual agreements.

Andrew Fawcett

Andrew Fawcett of Al Tamimi & Company is known for his extensive advice on telecom regulatory issues. From Abu Dhabi, he assists with the legal aspects of various e-commerce and cloud computing initiatives.

Martin Hayward

Martin is a seasoned counsellor in the tech industry. He joined Pinsent Masons as head of Middle East TMT in 2022 after leaving Al Tamimi. His experience also includes several years as an in-house lawyer.

Tom Butcher

Based in Abu Dhabi, Allen & Overy’s Tom Butcher is saluted for his strength in handling tech transactions including M&A and joint venture mandates. His prowess extends to regulatory issues related to data privacy and cybersecurity.

Kokila Alagh

The founding partner of KARM Legal Consultants, Kokila, is a respected figure in the UAE tech law sector. Her work is largely fintech-focused, including issues related to NFTs, cryptocurrency, and medtech.

Alexandre Brazeau

Alexandre Brazeau of Gowling WLG is head of the firm’s Middle East technology practice. He advises on digital payments and e-commerce matters, securing leading clients across the Middle East.

Raza Rizvi

Raza Rizvi of Simmons & Simmons, frequently advises tech and healthcare clients on commercial IP issues including brand protection, infringement and software licensing.

Paul Allen

A respected figure in Dubai and the broader Middle East, DLA Piper Middle East LLP’s Paul Allen regularly advises on significant tech-related procurement and licensing matters.

Joby Beretta

The founder of The Bench FZE provides comprehensive advice on licensing and IP protection strategies, Besides, Joby Beretta assists with patent applications and trademark registrations.

Brian A Meenagh

As Latham’s Middle East head of TMT, Brian Meenagh is Latham & Watkins LLP notable for his insight into fintech issues. He often represents significant financial institutions and tech startups, demonstrating considerable experience in cybersecurity and data privacy compliance.