Executing projects and achieving scalability in Saudi Arabia often needs pragmatic foresight. Following our recent mobilization of communications and technology solutions on some of the Kingdom’s mega projects, here are a few considerations for success.  

• Accommodation near site: The location of project sites in remote areas or across cities introduces accessibility and commuting challenges. Accommodation near project sites reduces delays and potential risks.    
• Flight costs and availability: With business travel to the Kingdom on the rise, seating availability on flights, particularly to the capital, is largely overbooked, and thus costs are inflated. Planning well in advance and using Saudi Arabia’s impressive domestic flight network keep costs down and provide flexibility when itineraries inevitably change.    
• Customs clearance delays: Handling sensitive equipment that requires approvals, certification, and licenses from various authorities will add days, sometimes weeks, onto the customs clearance process. Use experienced local agents and align with the relevant authorities to avoid unnecessary delays.    
• Mission creep: The Kingdom’s giga projects are of unprecedented scale and scope, mandated with ambitious completion timelines. Unexpected delays are inevitable, and planning for project delays by 20% will help mitigate financial losses or penalties.   
• Commuting: With most project sites located on greenfield sites, road infrastructure is quickly catching up, and as such, travel risk and road safety are key priorities. Experienced and professional local drivers reduce commuting risks, improve movement planning to reduce delays, and help commuters familiarize themselves with the local areas.