1/7: Programme Records:

Your Project’s Roadmap to Success—Why Robust Programme Records Matter in the Middle East

Programme records are the contractual blueprint of your project’s timeline. As highlighted in the Society of Construction Law (SCL) Protocol Appendix B, these records are fundamental for effective project management and successful dispute resolution.

Why This Matters in the Middle East:

• Regional Context: In the UAE, KSA, and Qatar, robust programme records are vital for handling unique challenges such as approval delays from authorities (e.g., Dubai Municipality, Abu Dhabi Civil Defence), supply chain disruptions (especially via Jebel Ali Port), and the impact of public holidays and Ramadan on project timelines.
• Legal Standing: Courts and arbitration centers (like DIAC, ADCCAC, and SCCA) frequently rely on programme vs. actual comparisons when assessing Extension of Time (EOT) claims, especially under FIDIC-based contracts prevalent in the region.
• Case in Point: For example, the Dubai Expo 2020 and NEOM projects have set new benchmarks for programme management, with a strong emphasis on real-time updates and transparent record-keeping.

What “Programme Records” Encompass

Programmes (SCL Protocol 1.2):

From tender to as-built, multiple programmes chart your project’s course. This includes:

• Tender Programmes
• Contractor’s Proposed Programmes (for acceptance)
• The Accepted Programme (your baseline!)
• Updated Programmes (leading to the as-built programme)
• Proposed Revised Programmes
• Detailed Short-Term Look-Ahead Programmes
• Internal Target Programmes

Supplemental Detailed Programmes (1.3):

Don’t forget specialized programming information for critical areas like:

• Design
• Approvals (Consultant, Municipality, Civil Defence, and other public authorities)
• Procurement & Manufacturing
• Delivery (especially for imported materials)
• Installation & Construction of key aspects
• Testing & Commissioning

Explanatory Records (1.4):

These are vital for understanding the “why” behind your programmes. They explain assumptions, logic, and sequencing. Key examples:

• Programme narrative (resources, risks, sequencing, critical path)
• Narrative of updated/revised programmes (key changes, critical path, delay/disruption impacts)
• Progress curves (costs, resources, physical construction)
• Tabular reports of milestone dates (scheduled, forecast, actual)
• As-built database for activities
• BIM files (if utilized)
• Marked-up drawings/sketches (anticipated & as-built dates)

Middle East Pro Tips & Actionable Insights

• Approval Delays: Track all submissions and responses to local authorities (e.g., Dubai Municipality, Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council) as these are frequent sources of delay claims.
• Ramadan & Public Holidays: Always integrate non-working days into your baseline and updated programmes to avoid surprises.
• Tech Tools: Leverage cloud-based platforms like Aconex or Primavera P6 (with Arabic support) for real-time updates and collaboration across teams.
• BIM Integration: Many GCC megaprojects now require BIM files as part of programme records—ensure your team is equipped.
• Legal Alignment: Align your programme narratives with UAE Civil Code and FIDIC Clauses for stronger claims.

Stay tuned for Part 2: Progress Records—coming soon!