University offers course in resolving builder disputes

A course dealing with construction disputes has been launched by a university in Dubai

The rapid growth of the construction industry in the UAE has spurred a university to start a course aimed at solving disputes in the sector. The British University in Dubai (BUiD) is offering a master's degree in construction law and dispute resolution. Officials hope lawyers, surveyors, architects and engineers will take the course, which starts next year. The announcement follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding with King's College London, whose Centre of Construction Law and Dispute Resolution is a partner in the course.

Issues such as structural safety, forms of contract and the regulation of construction are included in the programme, which is modelled on King's College's MSc of the same name. "The course offers study and research into law and management relating to the construction industry and will help nurture a new generation of talent, who will encourage the growth of a knowledge-based economy within the construction industry," said Dr Abdullah al Shamsi, the vice-chancellor of BUiD.

In a statement, the university said the rapid growth of the construction industry meant there were more delayed projects and workforce management problems. "Addressing these challenges requires the support of qualified specialists to address legal issues and understand and explain the changing regulatory environment," the statement said. Louise Barrington, the director of the Centre of Construction Law and Dispute Resolution, said she was "delighted" BUiD had partnered with King's College. "It's certainly a reflection of the high esteem worldwide enjoyed by the centre's MSc programme."

The BUiD, based in Knowledge Village, only offers postgraduate courses and describes itself as the first such research-based university in the Middle East. @Email:[e-mail]