A report conducted by the British Institute of Facilities Management (BIFM) – in partnership with FM Expo and i-FM.net – has determined that the sector is continuing to remain ‘optimistic’ about the possibilities of further growth in the Middle East.
‘The FM Business Confidence Monitor – Middle East’ report surveyed industry professionals based in the region and found that 59 per cent uphold a ‘positive’ or ‘very positive’ outlook; in addition to 57 per cent claiming that they expect the industry’s status in the region to further improve within the next 12 months.
Despite the encouraging results demonstrating superior business potential, a developing issue recurring in this year’s report is the topic of regulation and enforcement, with 21 per cent of respondents citing this as a major concern. Insights from professionals explained throughout the report indicated that advancements in this area could, more than likely, favour larger organisations who are better equipped to respond to the region’s regulatory environment.
Chief executive of the BIFM, James Sutton, said: “It’s encouraging to see the continued optimism regarding the long-term prospects for the FM sector in the Middle East. This of course appears to be tempered slightly by market conditions, but the research appears to show that any anticipated fluctuations will not be strong enough to throw facilities management’s growth in the region off its upward course. Having just launched BIFM’s operations in the UAE, it is positive to see a continuing appetite for training, qualifications and professional development with 70 per cent seeing qualifications as essential for their career development.”
In regards to the use of technology, 87 per cent of respondents agreed that it is a vital tool for growing business and backed its potential of to tackle issues related to the environment and sustainability.
Read more on the results here
