Performance Evaluation of International Contractors in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

International construction contractors are practitioners operating in a complex environment of uncertainty. To be successful, they must learn to effectively execute projects in multiple regions and societies with multinational/multiethnic teams. This paper compares the performance of international and local construction contractors in the context of the Saudi Arabia construction industry as an example of international construction practices. The research statistically quantifies the effects of company ownership upon thirteen project performance indicators. It concludes by pointing out that international contractors have not only overcome the common challenges of delivering projects outside their resident country, but seem to have found success in the unique Saudi Arabian construction environment.