Alternative Dispute Resolution in Construction Projects in the Middle East: A Systematic and Bibliometric Review

The construction industry in the Middle East is undergoing unprecedented growth driven by megaprojects, strategic national visions, and large-scale infrastructure development. This expansion has intensified the complexity of contractual relationships, leading to frequent disputes that challenge project performance, cost control, and timely delivery. While litigation has traditionally dominated dispute resolution, alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods such as arbitration, mediation, negotiation, and dispute review boards (DRBs) have gained prominence as more efficient and relationship-preserving mechanisms. This study provides an integrated systematic and bibliometric review of ADR in Middle Eastern construction projects, synthesizing findings from 77 peer-reviewed studies retrieved from Scopus and screened through a Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)–based process. Employing PRISMA guidelines and VOSviewer mapping, the research analyzes publication trends, thematic clusters, authorship networks, and country-specific practices. The results reveal the dominance of arbitration and litigation, the underutilization of mediation and DRBs, and significant legal variations across jurisdictions. The study highlights cultural factors such as hierarchy, honor, and relational norms as critical mediators of ADR effectiveness. Emerging innovations [including digital platforms, building information modeling (BIM), and expert systems] illustrate a shift toward technology-enabled dispute management. By bridging bibliometric evidence with thematic synthesis, this review contributes a comprehensive overview of ADR practices in the region, identifies gaps in enforcement and institutionalization, and proposes a holistic improvement agenda that balances legal reform, dispute avoidance, and sustainability. Findings provide actionable insights for policymakers, industry professionals, and international investors seeking to strengthen dispute resolution frameworks and enhance project outcomes across the Middle East.