Identifying project management competencies in the Saudi public sector

This study aims to identify the project management competencies within Saudi Arabia's public sector, against the backdrop of diminishing global economic impacts resulting from project failures. It highlights the pivotal role of project manager skills, focusing on the lack of skillsets contributing to project underperformance. Utilizing a comprehensive questionnaire, the research surveys 200 professionals to assess perceptions of essential competencies for successful public sector projects in Saudi Arabia. Employing descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including exploratory factor analysis, the study identifies key disparities across various demographic groups. The research categorizes crucial competencies into two main clusters: first, project planning and control, cost and resource management; and second, personal/general management competencies, emphasizing interpersonal skills. This categorization offers insights into the specific skill sets necessary for effective project management in the public sector. A significant aspect of this study is its focus on the Saudi Arabian context, providing a nuanced understanding of how project management competencies influence project success in this particular geographical and sectoral setting. The findings are particularly relevant for stakeholders in the construction and project management fields in Saudi Arabia, guiding them in enhancing skills to foster project success and contribute to economic growth. This study stands out for its detailed exploration of the intersection between project management competencies and project success in Saudi Arabia’s public sector, making a notable contribution to the existing body of knowledge in the field.