UAE’s construction sector remains optimistic, states KPMG’s survey

KPMG’s Global Construction Survey has revealed that the UAE construction sector remains optimistic with over 53 % industry leaders expecting a 6-10 % growth next year, and are confident that technology and governance are likely to play a significant role in the next five years.

According to KPMG’s global findings, the UAE is already seeing technological disruption in the construction sector through 3D printing and automation. Meanwhile, robotics, unmanned aerial vehicles and intelligent tools and equipment will continue to automate less complex and high-risks tasks at the job site.

However, industry professionals remain divided over whether companies in the UAE are delivering projects on time and within budget, with time (44 %) and cost (44 %) overruns ranking as the top hurdles facing capital construction projects.

The survey revealed that these concerns are being addressed as the industry adopts methodologies to link governance to project outcomes. UAE industry leaders have also recognised that well-run projects, with good management practices and appropriate controls, are more likely to achieve broad measures of success in the future, KPMG’s

Over half of construction leaders expect 6-10% growth over the next year

survey stated.

Sidharth Mehta, Partner, Head of Building, Construction & Real Estate, KPMG Lower Gulf, said: “The construction sector is the lifeblood of the UAE economy and it is very encouraging to see that the industry is expecting single