Isle of Man signs data protection agreements with Dubai and Malta

Agreements aim to boost international cooperation on data protection and artificial intelligence

The Isle of Man Information Commissioner has signed agreements with regulatory counterparts in Dubai and Malta to strengthen international cooperation on data protection.

The Memoranda of Understanding will allow the three jurisdictions to coordinate responses to cross-border investigations and collaborate on joint initiatives.

Both Dubai and Malta, like the Isle of Man, have economies driven by financial services, with Malta also hosting a major e-gaming sector.

The Commissioner is currently representing the Island at the 47th Global Privacy Assembly in Seoul, South Korea, where more than 140 data protection authorities are meeting to discuss the impact of artificial intelligence on information rights.

Information gathered at the event will be used to shape advice and guidance for the Isle of Man on AI and data protection.

Dr Delaney-Bhattacharya, the Information Commissioner, said the agreements would foster collaboration and exchange of expertise, helping to maintain the Island’s recognition as meeting global standards in data protection.

The Global Privacy Assembly is the leading international forum for data protection and privacy authorities. This year’s event is hosted by the Personal Information Protection Commission in South Korea.

Jersey hosted the previous Assembly in 2024.