Digital–circular pathways to Net-Zero readiness in construction: qualitative insights from the UAE

Purpose This study examines how digitalization and Circular Economy (CE) practices interact to support Net-Zero readiness in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) construction sector. The study aims to explore how digital infrastructures operationalize CE practices, shape implementation trade-offs, and interact with governance mechanisms to support Net-Zero transitions across fragmented construction ecosystems. Design/methodology/approach An exploratory qualitative research design was adopted based on 18 semi-structured interviews with experts across the UAE construction industry. Data were analysed using thematic analysis to examine how digital and circular strategies are implemented, governed, and aligned with the UAE's Net-Zero 2050 agenda. Findings The findings demonstrate that digital infrastructures and CE practices are mutually reinforcing mechanisms supporting Net-Zero readiness. Together, they support measurable carbon reduction outcomes and governance-aligned decision-making. Digital technologies support carbon monitoring, resource optimization, and data-driven decision-making, while CE practices support waste reduction, material circularity, and embodied carbon mitigation. However, implementation remains constrained by upfront costs, skills shortages, fragmented data environments, and interoperability challenges. The findings are synthesized into a sustainable, smart, and resilient framework explaining pathways toward Net-Zero construction transitions in the UAE. Originality/value This study contributes empirical evidence on how governance arrangements, organizational capabilities, and digital–circular integration shape Net-Zero readiness in a policy-driven construction context. Unlike predominantly conceptual studies, the paper provides practice-based qualitative insights into digitally enabled circular transitions in the UAE construction sector.