Nick O'Connell

I am a Partner working in Tech & Comms and Privacy & Data Protection. I have been based in the Middle East for most of the last 18 years, assisting local and international clients by providing specialist legal support on diverse matters in the broader technology, media and telecommunications space.

I moved to Dubai from New Zealand in 2006, initially specialising in intellectual property before developing expertise in technology, media, telecommunications and data matters. In 2018 I moved to Saudi Arabia, where I built and managed the first genuine 'on-the-ground' specialist TMT practice in the Kingdom, gaining great insight into the regulatory and business landscape in this key market. I now split my time between the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Given the nature of the Gulf markets, my practice is very diverse. It ranges from legal support on transactions with a tech angle through to regulatory advisory in the broader technology, media and telecommunications space. Much of the advisory work relates to discrete, ad hoc queries, although it also includes significant ongoing advisory projects, including in respect of major tech investments in the region.
I often assist international clients from outside the region seeking local insight in respect of new opportunities in an unfamiliar region; they appreciate a sensible perspective on what can sometimes be a challenging or opaque legal environment. Instructions from local clients (both private sector and government) are an increasing part of my work as the region invests for the future; these clients appreciate the international perspective and expertise that I bring. Whether international or local, I like to think that all my clients see me as a 'safe pair of hands'.
I regularly contribute to publications relevant to my legal specialisation in the Middle East. These have included the UAE chapter of Data Protection & Privacy, 3rd Edition (the Sweet & Maxwell International Series), and the UAE and Saudi Arabia chapters of Proskauer on Privacy.
I am admitted in New Zealand, New South Wales and England & Wales, registered with the Legal Affairs Department of the Government of Dubai, and an 'Affiliate Member' of the Saudi Bar Association. I am also a Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/E).