Mitigating Risks in Decentralized Construction for High- Rise Buildings

The construction industry is undergoing a significant transformation with the adoption of decentralized models, which leverage distributed decision-making, collaborative networks, and advanced technologies such as blockchain, digital twins, and artificial intelligence (AI). These innovations promise enhanced transparency, efficiency, and stakeholder engagement in high- rise building projects. However, decentralization introduces unique risks—spanning technical, social, economic, legal, and environmental domains—that challenge traditional risk management frameworks. This research systematically identifies and categorizes these risks, emphasizing their implications for decentralized high-rise construction. Key technical risks include design clashes and quality inconsistencies due to fragmented workflows, while social risks encompass labor disputes and community opposition. Economic risks arise from budget fragmentation and supply chain volatility, legal risks stem from contractual ambiguities and regulatory non- compliance, and environmental risks involve waste mismanagement and increased carbon footprints. To address these challenges, the study proposes a comprehensive risk management framework integrating emerging technologies. For instance, Building Information Modeling (BIM) and digital twins enable real-time clash detection and quality assurance, blockchain ensures transparent and automated contract execution, and AI-driven analytics predict safety hazards and cost overruns. The framework is validated through a case study of Skyline Towers in Dubai, where decentralized strategies reduced design errors by 45% and payment delays by 80%. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining a systematic literature review with empirical analysis of real-world projects. Findings highlight the critical role of stakeholder alignment, hybrid governance models, and sustainable practices in mitigating risks. The study concludes with actionable recommendations for policymakers and industry practitioners, advocating for standardized digital protocols, adaptive risk governance, and proactive environmental controls. By bridging the gap between technological innovation and risk management, this research contributes a forward-looking framework to enhance resilience and efficiency in decentralized high-rise construction, ensuring sustainable urban development in an increasingly complex industry landscape.