Abstract

The construction industry in Saudi Arabia is improving its economic conditions and diversifying its investment. However, considering the complex nature of Saudi construction project management, this study explores the challenges facing the industry’s management so that measures to deal with these can be taken. A total of 111 construction personnel associated with three different construction projects in Saudi Arabia were recruited to participate in a quantitative inquiry. The findings show that the major problems occurring within the construction are caused by variations between the designs and plans, ineffective communication, unproductive performance, and poor workmanship in the construction projects. Hence, the study provides a better understanding of the problems that can occur during construction projects. It is concluded that changes in the project scope, design and site conditions are the major factors leading to project delay and overrun cost, and the need is emphasized for a strengthening of the administrative, regulation and communication routes among the construction actors to enable the successful completion of projects.

Key words: Challenges, Construction Industry, Projects, Regulations, Saudi Arabia