Risk Assessment and Allocation in Highway Construction Projects in the UAE

Highway construction projects carry substantial risks. This paper highlights the risks associated with highway construction projects in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Thirty-three risks are identified through detailed literature review. A questionnaire is then developed to solicit the opinion of construction professionals as to the probability and impact of those risks in addition to their proper allocation. Fifty-one surveys were completed and used in the analysis. The priority of each risk is calculated by multiplying the probability with the impact for each risk. The priority helps identify the most significant risks. The relative importance index (RII) for the risk priority is calculated based on all responses for each risk. The most significant risks include inefficient planning, unexpected ground utilities, quality and integrity of design, delays in approvals, and delays in expropriations. Internal project risks are found to be more significant than external risks. Contractors and consultants are in agreement on the risk rankings. Recommended allocation of risks is also presented. This research assists project managers to better estimate risks prior to the commencement of a project and allows them to develop proper mitigation measures at an early stage of a project. (C) 2015 American Society of Civil Engineers.