An Empirically Validated Framework of AI Capabilities and Project Management Performance: The Mediating Role of Training in the UAE Public Sector

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly transforming project management practices by improving forecasting, scheduling, decision-making, risk control, and resource allocation. However, the effectiveness of AI capabilities in enhancing project management performance depends not only on technological adoption but also on employee training. This study develops and empirically validates a framework linking AI capabilities and project management performance through the mediating role of training in the UAE public sector. Four AI capability dimensions are examined: predictive analytics, intelligent scheduling and automation, decision support systems, and risk management and resource allocation. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was employed, and data were collected from employees involved in project-related work within UAE public sector organisations. A total of 515 valid responses were analysed using SPSS and SmartPLS. The findings show that all four AI capability dimensions have significant positive effects on project management performance and training. Training also has a significant positive effect on project management performance and emerges as the strongest direct predictor in the model. Furthermore, training partially mediates the relationships between each AI capability dimension and project management performance. These findings confirm that AI capabilities improve project outcomes both directly and indirectly through employee training. The study contributes to the literature by validating an integrated framework that combines technological and human capability perspectives. Practically, the findings highlight the need for UAE public sector organisations to align AI implementation with structured and continuous training programmes. The study concludes that AI capabilities can enhance project management performance, but their full value is realised when employees are adequately trained to apply AI tools effectively.