FIDIC / Legal Reference: Not expressly named in FIDIC — managed under Clause 1.9
A formal written request from the contractor to the Engineer seeking clarification, additional information, or a decision on a design or construction issue that is unclear from the contract documents. RFIs are the primary tool for managing design ambiguities during construction.
What it means in practice
While the FIDIC Red Book does not use the term ‘RFI’, the entitlement framework under Clause 1.9 captures the same concept. If the contractor requires a drawing, specification, or instruction that has not been issued, it must request it from the Engineer in writing. The Engineer’s obligation is to respond within a reasonable time.
A systematic RFI log — recording each request, date submitted, date a response was required, and actual response date — is essential evidence in delay claims. The log demonstrates the information gap, the contractor’s diligence, and the Engineer’s response performance.
Where disputes arise
Unanswered or late-answered RFIs are a primary delay trigger in contemporary UAE construction. The challenge in converting an RFI delay into an EOT entitlement is demonstrating critical path impact and timely notice under Clause 20.
UAE Context
UAE construction projects generate high volumes of RFIs — particularly on complex mixed-use and infrastructure developments. Maintaining a systematic RFI register with response tracking is considered best practice by UAE construction claims specialists.
Related terms
RFI delay analysis requires systematic document review and programme expertise. e-Basel provides claims advisory and delay analysis support for RFI-based entitlements in UAE construction.
Delay Analysis Expert UAE →Search terms: RFI delay claim construction UAE · request for information FIDIC · RFI construction UAE · information gap delay claim · clause 1.9 FIDIC RFI