Category: Contracts & management
Prepared by Eng. Ahmed Fathy, Projects Manager ·
Definition
FIDIC contracts are international standard forms published by the International Federation of Consulting Engineers; the best known are the Red Book for owner-designed works and the Yellow Book for design and build.
Why it matters on a project
They set clear notice and time limits for claiming time and money. A contractor who misses a notice period can lose the claim even when right.
Common mistake
Ignoring the contract notice period, so the right to time or money is lost.
Frequently asked questions
Which FIDIC books are best known?
Red for owner-designed works, Yellow for design and build, Silver for turnkey with more risk on the contractor.
Are FIDIC contracts used in Saudi Arabia?
Yes on some private and large projects, while government projects follow the Government Tenders and Procurement Law.
Related terms
- Extension of time (EOT)The contractor’s entitlement to additional time for delay not of its making, subject to timely notice.
- Variation order (VO)A written instruction changing scope, quantity or specification, with its price and time effect.
- Delay damages (liquidated damages)An agreed sum deducted per day of delay after the contractual completion date, capped in the contract.
- Payment application (IPC)A periodic payment request based on approved progress and executed quantities.
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