Assessing Project Management Maturity in Saudi Contracting Firms and Its Influence on Urban Project Delivery Efficiency: A Field Study in the Context of Vision 2030

Authors

  • Khaldoun Waleed Arafa Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59992/IJSR.2026.v5n1p2

Keywords:

Project Management Maturity, Project Efficiency, Saudi Contracting, Vision 2030, Project Management Institute (PMI), Contextual Adaptation, Integrative Model

Abstract

This study aimed to develop an adaptation model for assessing Project Management Maturity (PMM) in medium and large Saudi contracting firms and to test its impact on the efficiency of urban project delivery within the context of Vision 2030. The theoretical framework was based on the ten principles of the Project Management Institute (PMI) from the PMBOK® Guide Seventh Edition, proposing a "Layered Adaptation Model" that categorizes principles into universal, adaptable, and foundational. Employing a quantitative methodology, a contextually adapted questionnaire was distributed to a stratified random sample of 285 project managers and practitioners in the contracting sector. Statistical analysis results (Multiple Regression, Correlation Coefficient) revealed a statistically significant positive relationship between the level of project management maturity (overall score and sub-dimensions) and efficiency indicators (adherence to schedule, budget, and output quality), with a correlation coefficient of (r = 0.74). Regression analysis showed that the "adaptable" dimension (e.g., principles of leadership, steering, and adaptability) had the greatest impact (β = 0.41). The results also indicated statistically significant differences in favor of large companies in overall maturity levels. The study proposes a practical integrative model consisting of a diagnostic mechanism (self-assessment tool) and a graduated development roadmap. The study concludes that the contextualized and principled adoption of global project management standards, not literal application, is the critical factor in enhancing project efficiency. It recommends the adoption of this model by regulatory bodies and contracting companies to better align with the strategic objectives of Vision 2030.

Author Biography

  • Khaldoun Waleed Arafa

    Researcher and consultant in the field of architectural industries, engineering project management, and governance, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

    Member of the Project Management Institute (PMI) and the Project Management Institute of Saudi Arabia

References

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Published

2026-01-15

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Section

Articles

How to Cite

Assessing Project Management Maturity in Saudi Contracting Firms and Its Influence on Urban Project Delivery Efficiency: A Field Study in the Context of Vision 2030. (2026). The International Journal for Scientific Research, 5(1). https://doi.org/10.59992/IJSR.2026.v5n1p2