Bridging the Adoption Gap: A Conceptual Analysis of Knowledge Management Technologies in the UAE Construction Industry

Abstract

The construction industry in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) remains burdened by challenges in Knowledge Management (KM) systems despite the rapid development and advancement of digital technologies. This paper discusses the main reasons for the low integration of KM technology in companies, despite significant government investment, organizations' awareness of KM, and greater availability of technology. By highlighting recent literature (2020-2024) and integrating KM theory, socio-technical systems, and Technology-Task Fit (TTF), the authors introduce the KM Technology Adoption Triangle as a new conceptual framework that explains the systemic misalignment preventing adoption. Specifically, three major sources of resistance identified through the findings are interdependent: (i) the struggle of digital systems to express tacit knowledge; (ii) socio-organizational limitations such as cultural complexity, low digital literacy, and transient project structures; and (iii) poor match between technology and task, leading to a lack of perceived usefulness. Concurrently, the framework offers a theoretical contribution by bringing together scattered parts of the KM and construction management literature. It also provides practical support to companies, policymakers, and researchers focused on the UAE to improve KM technology integration. Finally, the paper outlines directions for future research and policy recommendations to realize a sustainable, knowledge-centric digital transformation in the construction sector.