Saudi Cultural Missions Theses & Dissertations
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Item Restricted THE IMPACT OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION ON PROJECT MANAGEMENT OF THE GLOBAL CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) Alkatheri, Abdullah; Kazem, ChaharbaghiThe main purpose of this research focus on evaluating the impacts of digital transformation on project management practices within the global construction industry. The role of digital transformation is crucial in enhancing the efficiency of the construction sector. Different technologies contribute to this transformation. For example, BIM allows better project coordination that enhances safety. Drones, robots and smart technologies allow teams to manage and monitor projects off-site. Despite these benefits, high costs for implementation and a lack of skilled employees make the digital transformation of this industry difficult. Privacy concerns are some other issues. Hence, employee training and data privacy measures are some effective strategies to enhance the effectiveness of digital transformation. The research has used interpretivism philosophy, an inductive approach and an exploratory design to explore how digital transformation is revolutionising global construction project management. Secondary data was thematically analysed using Braun and Clark’s model to identify trends, impacts, and challenges. It has been found that new digital tools (like BIM, AI, IoT, and VR) are helping construction companies work more efficiently. Construction firms (like Balfour Beatty and Sisk) use these tools to reduce delays and mistakes. However, some companies face problems (like poor data, weak internet systems, and a lack of skilled staff). To fix this, firms (such as Kier and Morgan Sindall) are training their workers and updating old systems. They also use cloud platforms and involve all teams to make better use of data. Good planning and staff support are crucial to digital success in construction. This study has explored how digital technologies like BIM, AI, IoT, and VR are changing the construction industry worldwide. It has been found that these tools help projects finish faster, improve safety, and boost collaboration. However, challenges (like poor data, skill shortages, and resistance to change) slow progress. Therefore, practical steps have been recommended here. Partnering with universities to train staff and using digital tools throughout all project phases can improve project outcomes. Thus, it highlights that successful digital transformation needs both technology and people-focused strategies.12 0Item Restricted THE IMPACT OF COMMUNICATION AND COLLABORATION TOOLS ON ENHANCED REMOTE TEAM PERFORMANCE IN THE INFRASTRUCTURE SECTOR: A CASE STUDY OF BALFOUR BEATTY(Saudi Digital Library, 2025-06-06) Altuwaym, Musab; Dr Chizindu Wonu, PhD, MSc, BTech (FHEA)Abstract In this dissertation, the role of communication and cooperation tools on the performance of remote teams in the infrastructure industry is examined using Balfour Beatty as an example. Researchers use interpretivist philosophy and secondary sources of data, including corporate reports, project files and academic papers, to conduct the study. In order to explore and summarize important topics on the use of digital tools in supporting distant collaboration, a thematic analysis was carried out. This study has selected data that mattered for this analysis such as Balfour Beatty’s latest annual and sustainability reports, industry white papers and scholarly journals. The study looks at how remote project teams at Balfour Beatty are using and assessing Microsoft Teams, Zoom and Slack as digital communication and collaboration tools. Such solutions are important for allowing information sharing, virtual gatherings, sharing documents and managing projects smoothly between remote teams in infrastructure. It assesses what is good and bad about using digital tools, covering technology issues (for example, unstable internet, old equipment), a lack of digital knowledge and opposition to transforming the organization. According to the analysis, digital technology strongly supports better communication, cooperation and decision-making among distant teams which leads to better project results and stronger teamwork. From the research, we find that some challenges such as varying technical abilities and the time needed for learning new platforms, can still slow down the use of these tools. Strong leadership plays a key role in managing these problems; when leaders communicate clearly, organize well-defined training and provide ongoing support, it becomes much easier for the team to use digital tools and gain from them. The dissertation ends by suggesting that infrastructure organizations looking to improve how remote teams work should focus on technology, keep capacity building up and ensure that leaders remain actively involved. The results add new knowledge to the field by outlining how using digital tools affects projects and provide useful advice for those working in the industry.3 0Item Embargo Organisational Readiness for AI in the Front-end Planning of Public Construction Projects(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) Felemban, Haneen Mohammedhassan; Khan, M SohailThe Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) Vision 2030 initiatives aim to diversify the economy and enhance the public sector. This led to an increase in public projects. However, many projects suffer from underperformance and failure, with these issues frequently arising during Front-end Planning (FEP), which is a crucial initial phase of project definition. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been identified as having the potential to lower the barrier of carrying out FEP and improve decision- making for better overall project outcomes. The adoption of AI at the FEP stage can significantly improve practices, however, the readiness of public construction organisations to adopt AI remains under-explored. This research established foundational knowledge (exploratory) and test hypotheses (explanatory), defined as collective capability, culture, and governance structure required for AI integration in KSA public construction. The research employed a sequential exploratory mixed-methods approach grounded in the Technology-Organisation-Environment (TOE) Framework and Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). The research first conducted 30 semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders (government officials, engineers, and industry experts) to explore their perspectives on FEP and enablers and barriers to adopt AI, while an online survey of 234 professionals validated these insights. Purposive and snowball sampling ensured relevance, while the demographic profile reflected the structure of the Saudi construction workforce, enhancing the representativeness of the sample. Findings revealed a robust model (R²=0.995, p<.001) where organisational absorptive capacity (β =0.261) and organisational maturity (β= 0.235) emerged as key factors for this readiness. Followed by technological readiness (β= 0.216), environmental support (β= 0.143), and senior management support (β= 0.126). reinforced by government support, senior management engagement, and technological readiness. Survey results showed 82.9% identified team competence as the most critical failure factor at FEP. These insights extended the theory by integrating TOE with TPB, showing that structural enablers such as process and resources, must align with behavioural dimensions to achieve readiness. Overall, this research makes a novel theoretical contribution by demonstrating how the intersection of mixed-methods, context specific (KSA), multi-level frameworks (TOE+TPB), specific project phases (FEP), and industry specificity (construction) creates unique adoption dynamics absent from Western- centric models. This research contributes to knowledge by identifying the interconnected role of organisational absorptive capacity and organisational maturity in determining organisational readiness to adopt AI. Theoretically, it extends the TOE framework by integrating individual-level behavioural factors, offering a contextualised perspective and provides the first empirical examination of AI adoption in FEP in the KSA construction industry. This framework provides a contextualised approach to AI adoption tailored to the KSA public construction sector, highlighting the need to reduce bureaucratic rigidity, enhance managerial communication, and promote learning in organisational culture. It also addresses employee concerns related to job security to ensure readiness for successful AI adoption. Future research should explore the integration of dynamic capabilities theory to address aspects of readiness development, which can guide policymakers and industry practitioners in improving organisational readiness for AI.24 0Item Restricted THE IMPACT OF COMMUNICATION AND COLLABORATION TOOLS ON ENHANCED REMOTE TEAM PERFORMANCE IN THE INFRASTRUCTURE SECTOR: A CASE STUDY OF BALFOUR BEATTY(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) Altuwaym, Musab; MSc, BTech; Wonu, ChizinduAbstract In this dissertation, the role of communication and cooperation tools on the performance of remote teams in the infrastructure industry is examined using Balfour Beatty as an example. Researchers use interpretivist philosophy and secondary sources of data, including corporate reports, project files and academic papers, to conduct the study. In order to explore and summarize important topics on the use of digital tools in supporting distant collaboration, a thematic analysis was carried out. This study has selected data that mattered for this analysis such as Balfour Beatty’s latest annual and sustainability reports, industry white papers and scholarly journals. The study looks at how remote project teams at Balfour Beatty are using and assessing Microsoft Teams, Zoom and Slack as digital communication and collaboration tools. Such solutions are important for allowing information sharing, virtual gatherings, sharing documents and managing projects smoothly between remote teams in infrastructure. It assesses what is good and bad about using digital tools, covering technology issues (for example, unstable internet, old equipment), a lack of digital knowledge and opposition to transforming the organization. According to the analysis, digital technology strongly supports better communication, cooperation and decision-making among distant teams which leads to better project results and stronger teamwork. From the research, we find that some challenges such as varying technical abilities and the time needed for learning new platforms, can still slow down the use of these tools. Strong leadership plays a key role in managing these problems; when leaders communicate clearly, organize well-defined training and provide ongoing support, it becomes much easier for the team to use digital tools and gain from them. The dissertation ends by suggesting that infrastructure organizations looking to improve how remote teams work should focus on technology, keep capacity building up and ensure that leaders remain actively involved. The results add new knowledge to the field by outlining how using digital tools affects projects and provide useful advice for those working in the industry.6 0Item Restricted Sustainable Project Management in the Saudi Arabia Renewable Energy Sector: Challenges and Best Practices(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) Khardalhadhrami, Faruoq Abu bakr S; Landy, yangAbstract Addressing environmental protection, supporting social groups and making businesses prosper has led to the SPM approach being vital. This paper looks into the use of SPM in Saudi Arabia’s expanding renewable energy sector which is growing as part of Vision 2030’s focus on lowering dependence on oil and becoming sustainable. This study looks into the reasons that make it difficult for many organizations to use sustainable project management and nominates the key practices employed to promote sustainability in all stages of a project. By using semi-structured interviews, the research team spoke to project managers, engineers and sustainability officers from important renewable energy firms in Saudi Arabia. It becomes clear through thematic analysis that people in this industry experience problems such as unclear regulatory guidance, not having enough local experts, slow acceptance of change among the culture and initial cost of pursuing these forms of energy being very high. Additionally, studies show that certain methods stand out, for example, engaging various parties together, using tools for assessing sustainability across the project’s life, adhering to worldwide guidelines (such as ISO 14001 and PRiSM) and making ESG elements of any renewable project a priority. In addition, the research shows that strong leadership, the support of the institution and training efforts are key to closing gaps and creating a project culture that lasts. The results of this research inform us on how SPM can be applied in emerging economies that have to manage traditional and unusual sustainability issues. The research offers a clear picture of sustainable production models in Saudi Arabia’s socio-economic and environmental settings and suggests useful actions for those who want to enhance renewable energy’s sustainability. As a whole, the research points out that adopting sustainable project management practices is the best way to ensure that environmental targets are met, operations are efficient and social growth is achieved in the renewable energy sector of Saudi Arabia.25 0Item Restricted The Impact of AL-Haramain Train Project Service Quality on Saudi Stakeholders Satisfaction(De Montfort University leicster, 2025) jan, Abdullrahim; jin, JingThis research aims to identify the primary factors influencing stakeholder satisfaction with the Al-Haramain Train Project, as it is one of the most significant infrastructure projects contributing to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's ambitions under Vision 2030. Furthermore, the study focuses on passenger experiences during peak seasons, such as the Hajj and Umrah, when the demand and expectations linked to this service rise significantly. Based on the SERVQUAL model and Expectation Confirmation Theory (ECT), the research examines the relationships between service quality, expectation confirmation, perceived value, perceived congestion, and overall satisfaction. The study adopts a quantitative approach, based on an online survey of 145 participants. The data was analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results of this study reveal that service quality has a strong impact on perceived value and expectation confirmation. These two factors were confirmed as being strong predictors of stakeholder satisfaction. Moreover, perceived value and expectation confirmation positively affect stakeholder satisfaction. However, perceived crowding strongly influences the relationship between expectation confirmation and satisfaction but does not significantly influence the relationship between satisfaction and perceived peak, suggesting that users may find good value in a service despite experiencing some degree of environmental discomfort. This study contributes to the current literature by addressing a clear research gap related to passenger satisfaction with public transport in the context of religious tourism. Furthermore, it provides practical recommendations for transport authorities and project managers about how to improve service delivery, manage the challenges that tend to arise during busy seasons, and move forward to meet the goals of Vision 2030.31 0Item Restricted Navigating National Transformation: The role of project managers in strategy implementation within the context of Saudi Vision 2030(University Collage London, 2024-01) Ababtain, Jori; Vernet, AntoineProject management is critical in attaining an organization’s goals and objectives. Its significant role requires project managers to implement processes that align with the organization’s business strategy. However, it is common for projects to fail due to misalignment between project management and strategy management. This study was conducted to examine the crucial role of project management in progressive and ambitious business practices, especially in the case of giga-projects. The research outlined Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 giga-project, exploring the importance of project managers and alignment between Project Management Offices (PMOs) and Strategy Management Offices (SMOs) for a successful project.18 0Item Restricted Project Leadership: An Exploration of the Role of Emotional Intelligence in Effective Project Management(Saudi Digital Library, 2023-12-07) Alyahya, Saad; Pangano, RosaneThe research examines and explores the relationship between Emotional Intelligence, Project Performance, Project Leadership, and Effective Project Management. The research delves into the EI significance in project leadership and its impact on project management and outcomes. While technical expertise and strategic planning are crucial, EI’s role in perceiving, understanding, and managing emotions has gained recognition. EI is particularly relevant to manage and motivate project teams, fostering an inclusive culture, improving communication, and inspiring trust. The research addresses the problem of limited recognition of EI’s role in effective project management and theoretically contributes by expanding the understanding of the competencies of project leadership. Practically it informs the practices of project management by emphasizing the EI importance to promote a holistic approach to the success of the project that integrates EI. The research provides an extensive review of existing studies related to a topic that concludes by presenting a conceptual framework that represents the interrelationship between the variables Emotional Intelligence, Project Performance, Project Leadership, and Effective Project Management. The hypothesis are formulated to guide the research and address the relationship between variables. In the research quantitative surveys and hypothesis testing are utilized. The outcome of the research contributes to the literature on project management that helps project managers and industry professionals to make project management effective. The tool to perform the analysis in the research is Smart PLS 4. The research is conducted under the context of UK-IT sector firms. From the analysis, SEM-PLS is employed, and using that reliability analysis is assessed for the variable’s internal consistency with Cronbach’s Alpha values exceeding 0.7 for all variables. The demographic analysis described diverse characteristics of participants that enhance the comprehensiveness of the research. Factor loading demonstrates the relationship strengths between indicators and latent variables. Convergent validity was established with AVE values above 0.5 for each construct. Discriminant validity was confirmed via HTMT ratio analysis, Fornell Larcker Criterion Testing, and Cross-Loading Assessment that shows clear distinction among constructs. The structured model assessment employed path analysis that in results demonstrate all hypothesis acceptance. The co-efficient of Determination R2 indicates the prediction strength with effective PM showing a substantial value of 0.527 and Effect Size F2 measurement can categorize the effects as large for EI and project leadership and medium for the variable project performance. Overall research significantly contributes to the EI role comprehension in project management. It can substantiate the framework proposed, determine limitations, and suggest avenues for future research and exploration. By recognizing the importance of technical skills or expertise, the research encourages a comprehensive approach to project leadership that leads towards collaboration, and better decision-making and ultimately assists to achieve success in the project.36 0Item Restricted Investigating the major causes of mega-project failures and success in Saudi Arabia(Saudi Digital Library, 2023-12-07) Almutairi, Salwa; Tabassi, AminMega-projects are considered as large projects which associated with complex and one-off capital investment such as infrastructure development, Olympic parks, railway, power plants, airport, road constructor and other. Despite the fact that mega-projects has a large influence over the country’s economic and social development; however, it associated with disappointing performance as well. This research main aim was to investigate the major causes of mega-projects failure in Saudi Arabia. It was also taken under the context of Vision 2030 which is a national development plan. For this purpose, survey questionnaire was used to collect data from participants who were domain expert in their profession. A total number of 72 participants responded. The results from data analysis procedures indicated that the most important factors of mega-projects failures in Saudi Arabia includes skills shortages, inadequate team design, lack of reward management system. Poor budget estimation, lack of communication and coordination, inappropriate leadership, poor planning and scheduling, and lack of stakeholder’s involvement. Further, results also indicated that failure of mega-projects in Saudi Arabia directly impact on Saudi Vision 2030. There were different strategies recommended in this research for effective managing mega-projects in Saudi Arabia to avoid failure which included: adoption of appropriate stakeholder engagement methods, implementation of an effective communication system, effective monitoring and supervisor, quality work and equipment management and transformational leadership approach. Finally, a conceptual framework for mega-project management was recommended which can be validated in future work. This research also highlighted on the research limitations and future work.51 0