Evaluating Digital Transformation Adoption on Sustainability Outcomes in Construction Projects in the UAE

Abstract

The construction industry in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is undergoing rapid transformation driven by digital innovation and sustainability imperatives. This study evaluates the impact of digital transformation adoption on sustainability outcomes in construction projects. By integrating advanced technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), Internet of Things (IoT), and data analytics, organizations aim to improve environmental, economic, and social performance. This study employed a quantitative, hypothesis-driven survey design under a positivist paradigm and deductive approach, guided by the Technology–Organization–Environment (TOE) framework. The population comprised contractors involved in sustainable construction projects in the UAE, based on licensed and classified construction firms listed by the UAE Ministry of Infrastructure Development. The sample size determination based on a population of 11,676 contractors, the required sample size was 371 respondents. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire survey, distributed electronically to targeted contractor managers, supported by official access to company lists and facilitated through the licensing sector to enhance reach and participation. The study analyzed data using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) via SmartPLS. Findings indicate that digital transformation enhances sustainability outcomes and identifies key drivers and barriers within the UAE context. The findings provide insights for practitioners and policymakers seeking to align digital initiatives with sustainable development goals.