Managing Partner's Foreword

Welcome to this
month’s Law Update

The Sports and Events sector in the Middle East and North Africa grabs headlines and public interest, and from a regulatory perspective not only is it on a journey to align with international practise, but it is creating its own standards in the region. From an economic perspective the sector is adding significantly to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of nations across the region and has become a key contributor in the effort to diversify economies.

Today, this sector in our region has a reputation that is synonymous with world class sports and events, and it boasts an extensive calendar that continues to grow. There is significant appetite for sports and events entertainment, and a look around the region tells the story. For example, Saudi Arabia is making considerable strides and there is certainly more to come from the Kingdom. Around the region we have several marque sports competitions already being hosted, such as the Formula One in Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi, combat sports such as UFC and boxing, and major golf, tennis, and cricket tournaments.

The region is also home to an established calendar of annual industry events, such as fashion, aviation, healthcare and technology. I believe on its current trajectory we have the fastest growing sports and events sector in the world.

For the industry to thrive it must be underpinned by a robust regulatory framework, and the process of staging and commercialising sports and events includes significant legislative understanding and advice.

Another important area from a regulation perspective is personal guidance and image rights, this is increasing due mainly to the number of sporting personalities competing here and calling the region home.

We made a decision to play a leading role in the regulatory advancements in the sports and events sector by being the first law firm in the region to establish a specialist sports and events team, which includes sports law experts with both local and international expertise. Our lawyers have their finger firmly on the pulse of the sector and this is reflected in the themes covered within Law Update. For example, we have several articles providing updates on Saudi Arabia, such as commentary on the Saudi Pro League, women in sports, and e-gaming. We include an overview of the rise of sports infrastructure and academies in the region, share insights on licensing and merchandising rights and write about the metaverse and sports. In addition, we have a unique perspective on integrating ESG principles in event management, this particularly focuses on COP28 UAE.

Outside the focus pages we have several articles covering important updates from jurisdictions such as Bahrain and the UAE, and we continue to share with you real life judgements that provide context to the legal landscape across the region.

This edition is full of articles that give you regulatory and practical perspectives. I hope that you enjoy this issue. Should you have any comments or questions, please do not hesitate to reach out me or any of the lawyers that have contributed.