Delayed delivery of global megaprojects may wipe $1.5 trillion off world economy by 2030

Dubai: A global wave of construction megaprojects is underway—but many may not cross the finish line in time. A new report from global consultancy Mace warns that delays and cancellations in large-scale programmes could cost the world more than $1.5 trillion in lost economic growth by 2030.

The study, titled The Future of Major Programme Delivery, analysed over 5,000 mega and giga-projects worldwide and found that 11% are at risk of significant delay or cancellation. Despite record levels of public and private investment, the ability to consistently deliver projects on time, on budget, and with the intended benefits remains rare.

Since 2010, the number of major programmes—across sectors like energy, transport, housing, and healthcare—has grown by 280%, becoming larger, costlier, and more complex. The US leads with over 1,600 projects, followed by India (729), Saudi Arabia (577), and the UK (484).

The report notes that the Middle East particularly sits at the centre of this global construction boom. In Saudi Arabia alone, the number of active megaprojects has surged by 643%, fuelled by Vision 2030 and projects like Qiddiya, Diriyah, and King Salman International Airport.

But Mace’s experts caution that traditional delivery models are no longer sufficient. Systemic issues—ranging from political interference and scope changes to poor planning and unrealistic timelines—are undermining success.

“Mega-programmes are meant to deliver transformational value to society, but poor execution often dilutes that impact,” said Davendra Dabasia, CEO of Mace Consult. “The solution lies in collaborative delivery, clear governance, and aligning everyone behind shared outcomes.”

The report also highlights that collaborative approaches can reduce costs by 4–13% and halve the risk of late delivery. With more than 11,000 live megaprogrammes and 250 giga-projects globally, the report calls for a shift in focus—from how projects are delivered to the value they ultimately provide.