Construction most corrupt sector in Arab states

A recent study on the construction sector has found that it is the most corrupt industry in Arab countries.
This has hampered development efforts, wasted resources, created environmental crises and threatened the safety of people, the study said.
The study was conducted by the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC). It reported that judicial bodies in Arab countries issued rulings against more than 60,000 people over the last five years on various charges of corruption.
The violations involved developments on unsuitable land, favoritism in awarding public tenders, procurement of substandard construction material, unlawful subcontracted projects, neglecting inspection operations and bribery of officials and employees.
It also found that these corrupt practices had resulted in Arab countries wasting huge resources.
Nabel Abbas, representative of FIDIC in the Gulf region, said the study was conducted as part of preparations for FIDIC's next international conference in Barcelona from Sept. 15 to 18.
More than 100 experts and representatives of 40 giant construction firms will attend the conference. Delegates will discuss issues including investment in the infrastructure business, global challenges and the best sustainable solutions for the construction and building sector.
Abbas said that the conference would pass a number of resolutions to help governments and institutions deal with the hazards of corrupt activities. "A new agreement is being worked out that will include guiding principles on the management of safety in the face of corruption," said Abbas.
"These principles have been developed with the assistance of various parties to familiarize stakeholders with the nature and hazards of corruption."
He called on Saudi and Gulf institutions in the construction, building and infrastructure sector to join the conference and participate in its sessions and workshops.
FIDIC is an international standards organization for the construction industry that was established in Switzerland in 1913.
It is best known for laying out the foundations and rules that allow for the best practices in building and construction, drafting and approving contractual documents, and settling disputes in engineering.