Development of an Agile and Sustainable Framework for Resilient and Inclusive Public Transport Organizations

This study developed an integrated framework to enhance agility, resilience, sustainability, and inclusiveness in Emirati public transport organizations. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research combined semi-structured interviews with 19 experts and a structured questionnaire administered to 38 specialists. The DEMATEL method was applied to analyze and visualize the interdependencies among key factors influencing transport system performance. Results indicate that operational efficiency, demand–supply forecasting, and ridership estimation are central to agility; green migration strategies, governance, and service design drive resilience; service diversity, technology, and infrastructure adequacy underpin sustainability; and service level types and seamless transfers are critical to inclusiveness. These dimensions were synthesized into a cohesive model that captures both strategic alignment and system adaptability. The study contributes a validated, multi-dimensional decision-making tool for policymakers and transport authorities, offering practical guidance for aligning transport strategies with national goals and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. While tailored to the UAE context, the framework is adaptable to other urban environments undergoing rapid transformation. While tailored to the UAE context, the framework is adaptable to other urban environments undergoing rapid transformation. The study’s empirical rigor is established through a validated questionnaire and expert-based DEMATEL analysis, ensuring theoretical robustness and real-world applicability.