THE APPLICABILITY OF WESTERN MANAGEMENT IN THE MIDDLE EAST

The Middle Eastern construction industry is still suffering from cost overruns, delays, and disputes. Inefficient management practices and lack of management are frequently reported reasons for such problems. Researchers attribute such problems to the traditional management practices that are utilized in the Middle East. However, International companies who practice their best management strategies are still suffering from the same problems. These issues become more significant in joint ventures when two different management styles work together. Therefore, it becomes crucial to understand the characteristics of Middle Eastern construction environment in terms of the management practices and regulations that are used and the cultural characteristics of the Middle East and thier effects on the business environment and management style. This study shed the light on the characteristics of Middle Eastern management style. It also examines the applicability of western management in the Middle Eastern business environment through a comprehensive review of the cultural and managerial characteristics of the two regions. In addition, potential opportunities and barriers associated with the implementation of western management in the Middle East have been identified. Finally, the study concludes with a proposed research plan for future work.