Middle East Construction Market By Type (Building Construction, Heavy & Civil Engineering Construction, Others), By End User (Private, Public), By Sector (Commercial, Residential, Industrial, Infrastructure), By Construction Type (New Construction, Repair & Maintenance), By Country, Competition, Forecast and Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

The Middle East Construction Market was valued at USD 104.15 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 148.14 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 5.89% during the forecast period.

The Middle East construction market is experiencing significant growth, driven by rapid urbanization, large-scale infrastructure projects, and economic diversification initiatives. Governments across the region are heavily investing in sectors such as real estate, transportation, energy, and tourism to reduce dependency on oil revenues. Countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar are leading the region’s construction activities, fueled by ambitious development plans such as Saudi Vision 2030, UAE’s National Agenda 2031, and Qatar National Vision 2030. These initiatives focus on smart cities, sustainable infrastructure, and mega projects, boosting the demand for construction services, materials, and technology integration.

Saudi Arabia is spearheading the region’s construction boom with NEOM, a USD 500 billion futuristic smart city, along with projects like the Red Sea Development, Qiddiya, and Diriyah Gate. Other Gulf nations, such as Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman, are also prioritizing large-scale infrastructure upgrades, including highways, ports, and renewable energy facilities.

The construction sector in the Middle East is benefiting from strong government support, foreign direct investments (FDI), and public-private partnerships (PPPs). The shift towards green buildings, modular construction, and digitalization (such as BIM – Building Information Modeling and 3D printing) is redefining industry standards. Smart cities, AI-driven construction management, and energy-efficient buildings are gaining traction as governments push for sustainability and climate resilience. Additionally, the integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind into infrastructure development is becoming a key focus.

Despite strong growth prospects, the market faces challenges such as rising construction costs, supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and regulatory hurdles. Fluctuations in oil prices also impact funding for major projects. However, government-backed infrastructure spending, foreign investments, and new construction technologies continue to drive market expansion. As the region prioritizes economic diversification and urban modernization, the Middle East construction market remains poised for robust growth in the coming years.

Key Market Drivers

Government Infrastructure Investments 

Governments across the Middle East are investing heavily in infrastructure to support economic diversification and urbanization. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 alone allocates over USD 1.2 trillion to infrastructure projects, including the USD 500 billion NEOM city. The UAE is advancing large-scale developments, such as Etihad Rail (USD 11 billion investment) and Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan. Qatar continues infrastructure expansion post-World Cup 2022, with investments exceeding USD 16 billion in transport and real estate. These investments drive demand for construction materials, smart city solutions, and workforce expansion, reinforcing long-term market growth. 

Real Estate and Housing Boom

The Middle East is experiencing a surge in residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments, fueled by growing populations and foreign investments. Saudi Arabia targets the construction of 300,000 housing units by 2030, while the UAE’s luxury real estate segment saw a 40% rise in high-end property sales in 2023. Dubai’s real estate transactions reached USD143 billion in 2023, reflecting heightened demand. Additionally, Qatar’s Lusail City and Oman’s integrated tourism complexes are attracting international investors. The ongoing housing boom ensures steady demand for construction services, modular building techniques, and sustainable housing solutions. 

Rise of Smart Cities and Sustainable Development

Middle Eastern countries are embracing smart city initiatives and sustainable infrastructure, driving innovation in construction. Saudi Arabia’s USD 8 billion King Salman Energy Park (SPARK) integrates green technologies, while the UAE’s Masdar City is a global model for net-zero urban development. Green building certifications are rising, with Dubai mandating that all new buildings meet sustainability standards by 2030. Moreover, the demand for energy-efficient materials and AI-driven construction technologies is increasing, reshaping industry operations and boosting investment in advanced construction methods. 

Growth of Transportation and Logistics Infrastructure

With the region aiming to become a global logistics hub, transport infrastructure investments are at an all-time high. Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Metro (USD 22.5 billion investment) is set to be one of the world’s largest urban transport networks. The UAE is expanding Al Maktoum International Airport (USD 33 billion project) to accommodate 260 million passengers annually. Qatar and Oman are also advancing port and railway projects to enhance trade connectivity. These developments are accelerating demand for construction materials, civil engineering expertise, and heavy equipment, creating opportunities across the supply chain. 

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Public-Private Partnerships (PPP)

FDI inflows into Middle Eastern construction projects have surged, particularly in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt. In 2023, Saudi Arabia attracted USD 32 billion in FDI, with major real estate and infrastructure projects benefiting from international capital. The UAE’s PPP model is expanding, with projects like Abu Dhabi’s USD 3 billion waste-to-energy plant. Additionally, international construction firms are entering the market through joint ventures, strengthening industry capabilities. The rise of FDI and PPP models fosters increased project financing, ensuring a steady pipeline of construction developments. 

Download Free Sample Report

Key Market Challenges

Rising Construction Costs and Inflation

The Middle East construction market is facing rising costs driven by inflation, higher raw material prices, and supply chain disruptions. In 2025, construction costs are projected to rise by 4% in the UAE and 6% in Saudi Arabia. Prices of key materials such as steel, cement, aluminum, and copper have increased sharply, with aluminum and copper up by over 50% in 2021.

Global supply chain issues, currency fluctuations, and geopolitical tensions continue to strain costs. Labor expenses have also risen, with Saudi Arabia reporting a 1.5% annual increase in wages and nearly a 10% rise in energy prices as of July 2025. The 15% VAT standard rate in Saudi Arabia has further added to financial pressures.

Fluctuating oil prices affect government revenues, sometimes delaying public-sector construction in countries like Oman and Saudi Arabia, although major projects such as the Riyadh Metro remain funded. Developers are turning to cost-efficient techniques like modular construction and 3D printing; for instance, a 9.9-meter, three-story villa in Saudi Arabia was 3D-printed in 26 days. Despite these efforts, high construction costs remain a major challenge for the region’s developers and contractors.

Supply Chain Disruptions and Material Shortages

The Middle East construction market is heavily reliant on imported raw materials and equipment, making it vulnerable to global supply chain disruptions. Events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical conflicts, and transportation bottlenecks have caused delays in material shipments, increased lead times, and project slowdowns. Construction companies in the region depend on imports of steel, machinery, and finishing materials from countries like China, India, and Europe.

Port congestion, container shortages, and rising freight costs have significantly increased material procurement costs. Additionally, stringent customs regulations and import duties in some Middle Eastern countries further complicate supply chain logistics. To address these issues, companies are increasingly sourcing materials locally and investing in regional manufacturing hubs to reduce dependency on external suppliers. Additionally, digital tools like AI-driven supply chain analytics and blockchain-based procurement systems are being explored to improve efficiency. However, supply chain instability remains a key challenge for construction firms operating in the Middle East.

Skilled Labor Shortages and Workforce Management

The Middle East construction sector faces an ongoing challenge of skilled labor shortages, particularly in specialized fields such as mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering. Despite the region’s large expatriate workforce, many construction companies struggle to find highly skilled professionals required for complex infrastructure and mega projects.

Stringent labor laws, nationalization policies, and visa restrictions in countries like Saudi Arabia (Saudization) and the UAE (Emiratization) have made it more difficult to recruit foreign workers. Governments are pushing for more employment of local talent, but the gap in technical expertise and industry experience remains a challenge. Furthermore, working conditions, health and safety standards, and labor rights are under scrutiny, prompting construction firms to enhance worker welfare policies.

Many companies are investing in automation, AI-driven construction technologies, and robotics to reduce dependency on manual labor. However, training programs and workforce development initiatives are crucial to addressing this labor market imbalance.

Regulatory and Environmental Compliance

The Middle East construction industry is increasingly subject to strict regulatory frameworks and environmental compliance requirements, which pose challenges for developers. Governments are implementing sustainability regulations, building codes, and emission control policies to promote green building practices and reduce carbon footprints.

Countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar have introduced regulations mandating the use of energy-efficient materials, water conservation systems, and renewable energy integration in construction projects. While these policies align with global sustainability goals, they add complexity and costs to project execution. Additionally, navigating zoning laws, building permits, and approval processes can be time-consuming, leading to delays. Bureaucratic hurdles and regulatory variations across different countries in the Middle East create uncertainty for investors and construction firms.

To overcome these challenges, companies must invest in compliance management systems, sustainable construction practices, and advanced regulatory planning to streamline operations and meet evolving legal requirements.

Project Delays and Financing Constraints

One of the most persistent challenges in the Middle East construction market is project delays caused by financial constraints, bureaucratic processes, and unexpected disruptions. Mega projects, especially those led by government entities, often face funding shortages, delayed payments, and extended timelines.

The reliance on public-private partnerships (PPPs) and foreign direct investment (FDI) for large-scale infrastructure projects means that any economic downturn, oil price volatility, or investor hesitation can significantly impact project completion. Additionally, financial institutions have become more cautious about lending due to market uncertainties, leading to stricter credit requirements.

To mitigate this issue, construction companies are exploring alternative financing models, including green bonds, infrastructure funds, and digital crowdfunding. Governments are also introducing incentives to attract private investment, but efficient project management, risk assessment, and contract transparency remain critical in overcoming financial constraints in the Middle East construction industry.

Key Market Trends

Integration of Smart Cities and Digital Technologies

The Middle East construction industry is rapidly moving toward smart city development and digital integration, with investments nearing US$50 billion by 2025. Governments and developers are using artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and Building Information Modeling (BIM) to improve energy efficiency, mobility, and connectivity in urban environments. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar lead this transition.

Saudi Arabia’s NEOM, a $500 billion project spanning 26,500 square kilometers, exemplifies this shift with AI-driven automation, renewable energy systems, autonomous transport, and high-speed digital infrastructure. The UAE’s Smart City 2025 Vision focuses on automated buildings, blockchain-based real estate transactions, and AI-powered security. Qatar’s Lusail City integrates smart traffic control, sustainable energy systems, and IoT-based monitoring, backed by a $60 million AI platform contract.

The demand for smart construction is driving adoption of 3D printing, modular building, and drone inspections, which reduce costs and timelines. Digital twins are improving predictive maintenance and operational performance, while cloud computing and data analytics enhance project management and decision-making.

Although challenges include high setup costs, cybersecurity concerns, and shortages of skilled professionals, governments are supporting public-private partnerships and creating regulatory frameworks to accelerate digital adoption. With growing investment in smart infrastructure and advanced technologies, the Middle East is positioning itself as a global hub for smart city innovation and sustainable urban growth.

Sustainability and Green Building Initiatives

Sustainability has become a central focus in the Middle East construction market, driven by environmental concerns, regulations, and the shift toward energy-efficient development. Governments are enforcing green building codes, carbon reduction targets, and energy-saving measures to meet global climate goals. Demand for LEED-certified buildings, net-zero energy projects, and eco-friendly materials continues to rise, with over 2,500 LEED-certified buildings recorded in the region by 2020.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 promotes sustainable infrastructure through projects like The Red Sea Development, powered entirely by renewable energy from a 400 MW solar system and 1000 MWh battery facility. The UAE’s Masdar City in Abu Dhabi and Dubai’s Green Building Regulations demonstrate strong commitments to carbon-neutral construction and strict environmental standards. Qatar’s Lusail City also integrates green systems such as waste vacuum networks, water recycling, and efficient cooling, with all buildings required to meet at least a two-star GSAS rating.

Use of sustainable materials like recycled steel, low-carbon concrete, and eco-friendly insulation is growing. Modular and prefabricated construction methods are reducing waste and improving efficiency, while solar panels, smart grids, and advanced HVAC systems are being incorporated into modern projects.

Challenges include high upfront costs, limited availability of green materials, and the need for technical expertise. Yet, government incentives, green financing, and rising environmental awareness are accelerating adoption. With continued investment in renewable energy and sustainable planning, the Middle East is emerging as a leader in green construction and long-term environmental resilience.

Expansion of Transportation and Logistics Infrastructure

The Middle East construction market is expanding rapidly in transportation and logistics infrastructure, driven by urbanization, population growth, and trade. Governments are investing heavily in roads, railways, seaports, and airports to improve connectivity and support economic growth.

Saudi Arabia is advancing major rail and metro projects, including the 176 km Riyadh Metro with 85 stations, valued at $22.5 billion, aimed at improving mobility and reducing congestion. The UAE’s Etihad Rail, a 1,200 km network connecting key cities and industrial hubs, enhances trade flow and regional integration. Qatar’s Doha Metro and Lusail Tram have strengthened urban mobility, with the tram system carrying over 10 million passengers since 2022.

Port infrastructure is also expanding. Saudi Arabia is upgrading King Abdullah Port, with a 25 million TEU capacity, and Jeddah Islamic Port, now upgraded to handle 4 million TEU after an $800 million investment. The UAE’s Jebel Ali Port remains a key logistics hub with a 22.4 million TEU capacity. New logistics parks and free zones are attracting global companies and improving supply chain efficiency.

While high capital costs, project delays, and geopolitical risks pose challenges, public-private partnerships, foreign investments, and construction technology are driving steady progress. The adoption of smart transport systems, automated logistics, and AI-based traffic management is reshaping regional mobility and supporting sustainable economic development.

Growth of Residential and Commercial Real Estate

The Middle East is witnessing a strong demand for residential and commercial real estate, fueled by population growth, increasing foreign investments, and expanding business opportunities. Governments are actively promoting urban development, mixed-use communities, and affordable housing projects to meet the evolving demands of residents and businesses.

In Saudi Arabia, the Sakani Housing Program aims to deliver affordable housing units to citizens, while Dubai’s freehold property market continues to attract international investors. Qatar’s real estate sector is growing with developments such as Lusail City and the Pearl-Qatar, providing luxury residential and commercial spaces. Despite global economic uncertainties, real estate in the Middle East remains resilient, supported by government initiatives, foreign investment policies, and strategic urban planning. The sector is expected to continue its upward trajectory, driven by infrastructure developments, technological advancements, and evolving consumer preferences.

Segmental Insights

Construction Type Insights

New Construction segment dominated in the Middle East Construction market in 2024, due to massive infrastructure developments, urban expansion, and government-driven projects across the region. Countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar are heavily investing in new developments to diversify their economies beyond oil and meet the rising demand for modern infrastructure.

One of the key drivers is Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which has led to large-scale projects such as NEOM, The Red Sea Project, and Qiddiya. These projects require extensive new construction, including commercial buildings, residential complexes, transportation networks, and smart city infrastructure. Similarly, the UAE continues to expand its real estate and tourism sectors with projects like Dubai Creek Harbour, Etihad Rail, and Abu Dhabi’s Reem Island developments. Qatar, after hosting the FIFA World Cup 2022, is focusing on further infrastructure upgrades, including the expansion of Lusail City and Hamad International Airport.

The rise in smart cities and sustainable urban planning has also fueled demand for new construction. Governments are integrating green buildings, energy-efficient structures, and digital construction technologies to enhance sustainability. The introduction of AI, IoT, and modular construction techniques is further accelerating the pace of new developments, making construction more efficient and cost-effective. Additionally, the rapid growth of tourism, hospitality, and logistics sectors is driving new construction. The Middle East remains a global hub for luxury hotels, commercial towers, and industrial zones, requiring continuous expansion.

Although challenges such as high costs, regulatory hurdles, and supply chain disruptions exist, foreign direct investments (FDI), public-private partnerships (PPPs), and government incentives are ensuring the continued dominance of the new construction segment. With ongoing mega projects and economic diversification strategies, new construction will remain the key driver of growth in the Middle East construction market throughout 2024 and beyond.

Download Free Sample Report

Country Insights

Saudi Arabia dominated the Middle East Construction market in 2024, due to large-scale infrastructure projects, government initiatives, and increased foreign investments. The country’s Vision 2030 plan has accelerated construction activities by focusing on economic diversification, urban development, and tourism expansion. Major projects such as NEOM, The Red Sea Project, and Qiddiya are transforming the construction landscape, driving demand for residential, commercial, and industrial developments.

These megaprojects are designed to position Saudi Arabia as a global hub for business, tourism, and technology.  The government’s heavy investment in transportation and infrastructure is another key factor. Projects such as the Riyadh Metro, Jeddah Economic City, and King Salman Energy Park are improving connectivity and fostering economic growth. Additionally, the expansion of ports, highways, and rail networks is enhancing logistics and trade, attracting international businesses and developers. The rapid urbanization of cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam has further increased demand for high-quality housing and commercial spaces, contributing to the dominance of Saudi Arabia in the regional construction sector. 

Foreign direct investment and public-private partnerships have also played a crucial role. The government’s efforts to ease business regulations and provide incentives for investors have led to increased participation from global construction firms. The introduction of new building technologies, such as modular construction and smart city solutions, is making projects more efficient and sustainable.

The adoption of green building practices and energy-efficient designs aligns with global trends and strengthens Saudi Arabia’s leadership in the Middle East construction market.  While challenges such as rising material costs and workforce shortages exist, government-backed initiatives, strong financial support, and strategic planning continue to drive growth. With a robust pipeline of projects and sustained economic momentum, Saudi Arabia remains the dominant force in the Middle East construction market in 2024.

Recent Developments

• In February 2025, Saudi Arabia announced over $48 billion in new mega-projects as part of its Vision 2030, including the second phase of Qiddiya Entertainment City and further developments for The Line at NEOM.
• In January 2025, Welspun Corp announced a strategic agreement with Saudi Aramco to establish a Longitudinal Submerged Arc Welded (LSAW) line pipe manufacturing facility in Saudi Arabia. Located in Dammam 3rd Industrial City, the facility will enhance the region’s industrial capabilities, supporting the growing demand for high-quality pipeline infrastructure. Designed to meet stringent industry standards, the plant will have a significant annual production capacity, further strengthening Welspun Corp’s footprint in the Middle East and reinforcing its commitment to supplying advanced pipeline solutions for energy and infrastructure projects.
• In May 2024, Saudi Arabia’s National Housing Company (NHC) signed a strategic cooperation agreement with CITIC Construction, a prominent Chinese construction firm. This partnership focuses on developing an advanced industrial city and specialized logistics zones for building materials within the Kingdom. The initiative includes the establishment of 12 new manufacturing facilities, enhancing local production capabilities, streamlining supply chains, and supporting Saudi Arabia’s broader infrastructure and housing development objectives. This collaboration aligns with the nation’s commitment to fostering industrial growth, attracting foreign investment, and strengthening its position as a key player in the regional construction sector.
• In July 2024, Trimble announced the expansion of its long-standing strategic partnership with Esri to strengthen collaboration in geographic information system (GIS) software, location intelligence, and mapping solutions. This enhanced partnership aims to optimize operational processes, support data-driven decision-making, and automate workflows, enabling more sustainable infrastructure planning, construction, and management. By leveraging advanced technologies, Trimble and Esri seek to deliver innovative solutions that enhance efficiency and environmental responsibility for their mutual customers in the construction and infrastructure sectors.
• In July 2024, construction is set to commence on a new mixed-use district within Saudi Arabia's Diriyah giga-project during the third quarter of the year. This follows the awarding of a SAR 7.8 billion (USD 2 billion) contract—the largest to date—to a strategic partnership between Chinese and Saudi entities. The project aims to enhance Diriyah’s urban landscape, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by integrating world-class infrastructure, commercial, residential, and cultural developments, further positioning Diriyah as a premier global destination.

Key Market Players

• Orascom Construction Plc
• Nesma & Partners Contracting Co. Ltd
• Albawani Group
• ALEC Engineering & Contracting LLC
• ACC Group Ltd
• ASGC Group
• The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.)
• Al Naboodah Construction Group (ANCG)
• Almabani General Contractors
• Airolink Building Contracting LLC

Report Scope:

In this report, the Middle East Construction Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Middle East Construction Market, By Type:

o   Building Construction

o   Heavy & Civil Engineering Construction

o   Others

• Middle East Construction Market, By End User:

o   Private

o   Public

• Middle East Construction Market, By Sector:

o   Commercial

o   Residential

o   Industrial

o   Infrastructure

• Middle East Construction Market, By Construction Type:

o   New Construction

o   Repair & Maintenance

• Middle East Construction Market, By Country:

o   Saudi Arabia

o   UAE

o   Qatar

o   Kuwait

o   Bahrain

o   Israel

o   Iran

o   Oman

o   Egypt

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Middle East Construction Market.

Available Customizations:

Middle East Construction Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

Middle East Construction Market is an upcoming report to be released soon. If you wish an early delivery of this report or want to confirm the date of release, please contact us at [email protected]