Evolving technology and digitalisation is gaining great momentum across the construction sector. The integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Building Information Modelling (BIM), digital twin adoption, cloud-based tools as well as smart solutions are being used to improve the delivery of projects. Advanced technologies enable enhanced efficiency and accuracy, streamlined processes, centralised information and reporting, reduced cost delays and improved safety allowing for better decision-making, cost savings and future-proofed data. This benefits the construction industry in the UAE due to the vast number of large-scale and complex projects in the pipeline.

In the UAE, modular construction is being embraced due to its efficiency, process standardisation, accelerated construction timelines and waste minimisation. This addresses many of the ongoing challenges in construction in the region including aggressive timelines and quality assurance. This is an effective method in meeting the growing demand for complex projects in the region.

Partnerships with public companies

Projects are increasingly being funded through public-private partnerships (PPPs), and this is set to continue due to the growing demand of large-scale projects. Investment incentives and regulatory frameworks are being used to attract investors to scale up delivery for long-term expansion plans.

Sustainability

Sustainable initiatives and green construction practices are gaining momentum across the UAE. Mandatory green-building requirements for the construction of new buildings are now in place. There are notable investments in renewable energy, carbon-reduction incentives, green building technologies, comprehensive regulation and certification systems, and smart infrastructure. Government strategies such as UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategy and UAE Energy strategy 2050 are driving sustainable development, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to environmental efficiency.

56 percent of our survey responses found that there has been an increase in sustainable measures on projects however 46 percent stated that very few projects had a commitment to net zero. We found that there was a 19 percent decrease of respondents noticing sustainable measures on projects from our 2024 survey results but there was a 5 percent increase in the number of projects with a commitment to net zero. This decrease could be a result of the focus on COP28 last year. With strict government strategies and investments now in place to drive sustainability, it is expected to be a major focus in upcoming years, and we expect to see these percentages increase.