Defining Characteristics of National BIM Adoption

Authors

  • Dilan M. Rostam 1College of Engineering, University of Duhok, Duhok, Kurdistan Region – F.R. Iraq https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1187-311X
  • Dawood S Atrushi College of Engineering, University of Duhok, Duhok, Kurdistan Region – F.R. Iraq https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0609-9964
  • Dawa A. A. Masih (1) Department of Architectural Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Koya University, Danielle Mitterrand Boulevard, Koya KOY45, Kurdistan Region – F.R. Iraq; (2) Architectural Engineering and Sustainability Department, School of Science and Engineering, Erbil, University of Kurdistan-Hawler – F.R. Iraq https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5769-3659
  • Diman N. Abdulqader College of Engineering, University of Zakho, Zakho, Kurdistan Region – F.R. Iraq https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1660-7010

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14500/aro.12217

Keywords:

Architecture and engineering construction industry, Building information modeling adaption, Building code, Building information modeling, Digital construction

Abstract

Building information modeling (BIM) has become a transformative force in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction industry, streamlining project coordination, reducing costs, and promoting sustainability. Governments worldwide are mandating BIM to enhance efficiency and digital transformation in public projects. However, a roadmap of national adoption requires clear regulations, standardized frameworks, and skilled professionals. This study critically examines policy frameworks, legal considerations, and workforce readiness, educational strategies, identifying key enablers and barriers to national BIM implementation. Utilising a qualitative methodology, the research reviews global BIM adoption models, educational strategies, and legal challenges that serve the BIM adoption in Kurdistan Region. Findings emphasize the importance of BIM maturity models, structured training programs, and data interoperability. Recommendations include developing national BIM standards, integrating digital permitting systems, and fostering public-private collaboration. The Kurdistan Region faces regulatory gaps that hinder BIM validation and industry-wide adoption. Addressing these challenges through the Kurdistan National BIM Standards, aligned with global benchmarks such as ISO 19650 and BSI PAS 1192, will drive digital transformation, enhance project efficiency, and position Kurdistan as a leader in digital construction.

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Author Biographies

Dilan M. Rostam, 1College of Engineering, University of Duhok, Duhok, Kurdistan Region – F.R. Iraq

Dilan M. Rostam is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, at The University of Duhok. He holds BSc and MSc degrees in Civil Engineering from Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden, and completed his PhD and postdoctoral research at The University of Nottingham, UK, specialising in Virtual Collaborative Design and BIM implementation. His research interests include Building Information Modelling (BIM), building codes, and virtual collaborative design.

Dawood S Atrushi, College of Engineering, University of Duhok, Duhok, Kurdistan Region – F.R. Iraq

Dawood S. Atrushi is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Duhok. He got his BSc., MSc and Ph.D.  from Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norway. His research interests are Concrete material, Mechanical properties of concrete, Early Age concrete, and Higher education.

Diman N. Abdulqader, College of Engineering, University of Zakho, Zakho, Kurdistan Region – F.R. Iraq

Diman N. Abdulqader got the B.Sc. degree in Civil Engineering from the Civil Engineering Department, College of Engineering, Duhok University, in 2018. She is currently pursuing a master's degree in Civil Engineering. Her thesis is about Building design codes. Her research interests are in Building design codes, and Construction Materials. Diman is a member of the Kurdistan Engineering Union.

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Published

2026-04-20

How to Cite

Rostam, D. M. (2026) “Defining Characteristics of National BIM Adoption”, ARO-THE SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL OF KOYA UNIVERSITY, 14(1), pp. 202–211. doi: 10.14500/aro.12217.

Issue

Vol. 14 No. 1 (2026): Edition Twenty Six

Section

Articles

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Copyright (c) 2026 Dilan M. Rostam, Dawood S Atrushi, Dawa A. A. Masih, Diman N. Abdulqader

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Received 2025-04-17
Accepted 2026-01-08
Published 2026-04-20

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