Modular construction is progressively gaining popularity in Saudi Arabia. A research firm, GMI Research, mentioned on their Saudi Arabia modular construction market forecast that the market would see exponential growth over the coming years.
This building method has been applied in various projects such as private, business, or industrial development. This method is using an approach in which a building structure is built in a controlled off-site factory before being moved and assembled at the final site.
Top players in the market include Laing O’rourke, Red Sea Housing, among other leading players. Besides construction, modular data center is also seeing growth.
The Advantages of Modular Construction
This construction method has several advantages compared to conventional construction.
Rapid progress in construction
GMI Research noted that modular construction can reduce project deadlines by an average of 40 to 50 percent for large scale projects. By using this method, the building contractors can build the indoor construction alongside the foundations work without having to worry about delays due to weather or other environmental factors.
Off-site construction
This method is utilizing off-site construction before being brought back to the site location. It will ensure better-quality management owing to the minimized disturbance.
Value for money
With a shorter construction time, modular constructions can be a more cost-efficient option compared to conventional construction. This is due to the reduction of labor and material costs.
Attractive design
As this method offers flexibility, users can design the buildings attractively. They can reconfigure or renovate the building if there are any changing needs by adjusting the layout or design.
- High quality construction and durable materials
The construction will ensure that the building materials are protected from the weather during the construction process since the building will be constructed indoors. The construction process will involve durable materials to ensure the construction durability and lifespan.
The Major Drivers
The popularity of this construction market in Saudi Arabia is due to several variables.
The rising demand for affordable housing
Finding an affordable place to live can be difficult, especially among younger generations. Therefore, implementing this construction can be the solution to provide houses at a more reasonable cost.
Advantageous characteristics
This construction offers advantageous characteristics in terms of flexibility and durability compared to conventional building. Moreover, this construction method also reduces the need for repairs and regular maintenance.
The expansion of modular construction in remote and rural areas
There has been a rising demand for modular buildings in remote areas, as they can endure various environmental conditions. This also can be the solution to address challenges in the rural communities regarding the building of rural infrastructure.
What are the Challenges?
However, there are some challenges that this market has to deal with.
The stringent building regulations
Even though the building is transportable to any location, this construction has the same legal position as regular property. In light of this fact, building contractors have to comply with the building regulations, from the planning, building, to the post-construction.
Lack of awareness
There is still a lack of awareness and lack of quality perception regarding this construction among consumers in the country. This challenge can further hinder the growth of the market.
Transportation costs and the potential damage during shipment
Even though this building method offers various advantages particularly for its cost-efficiency, it also has several downsides. The transportation cost to transport the building to its final location can be costly, especially when dealing with a large building and the final place is far from the construction site. In addition, there is also potential damage during the shipment that can also contribute to additional costs.
