Opportunities and Challenges of BIM Adoption in Construction Management in Egypt

Abstract

The construction industry is one of the most vital sectors driving economic growth and development worldwide. In recent years, Building Information Modeling (BIM) has emerged as a transformative tool in the construction industry, offering streamlined processes, reduced costs, improved collaboration, and more sustainable practices. However, despite its global success, BIM adoption in Egypt remains limited and faces several challenges that hinder its widespread use. This thesis aims to investigate these challenges, highlight the opportunities BIM presents for the Egyptian construction sector, and explore practical solutions for improving adoption rates.

Through comprehensive research and data analysis, the study uncovers several key barriers to BIM adoption in Egypt. These include high financial costs associated with software, hardware, and training, a lack of clear government support or policies encouraging BIM use and deeply rooted cultural resistance to change within the industry. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in particular struggle to implement BIM due to budget constraints and an absence of the necessary skills and knowledge. On the other hand, large firms in Egypt demonstrate higher levels of awareness and integration but still face difficulties due to the absence of a unified national strategy.

Despite these challenges, the findings of this research highlight the immense potential of BIM as a game-changer for Egypt’s construction industry. BIM can not only minimize errors and reduce waste but also help companies become more competitive in local and international markets. The study emphasizes the importance of tailoring BIM strategies to the unique needs of Egypt, involving stakeholders at all levels to raise awareness, improve education, and develop a supportive ecosystem for adoption. The thesis concludes by presenting actionable recommendations to address the barriers to BIM adoption, including enhanced training programs, incentivized government policies, and the development of a practical framework specific to Egypt’s construction context. The findings and proposed solutions aim to inspire further research and contribute toward building a modern and competitive construction industry in Egypt.