The Mediating Role Of Organizational Agility In The Relationship Between Innovation And Community Trust: An Empirical Study On Sharjah Police

Abstract

In addressing the need for evidence-based solutions to improve public sector performance and sustainability, this study explores the relationships between Innovation, Organizational Agility, and Community Trust among Sharjah Police. Data were collected from 117 officers and staff of Sharjah Police through a structured questionnaire with five-point Likert scale. Measurement model and structural model were tested by using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) including mediation effects. The measurement model supported acceptable reliability and validity for all constructs. Structural model results showed that innovation has a strong positive effect on both organizational agility and community trust, and that organizational agility mediated the relationship between innovation and trust. The model had good explanatory and predictive power, especially for trust in the community (R² = 0.728; Q² = 0.551).  This study contributes to Dynamic Capabilities Theory, Diffusion of Innovation Theory and Procedural Justice Theory by empirically establishing the dual pathway (direct and mediated) through which innovation builds trust. It provides practical evidence for the integration of agility-based approaches into the advancement of policing innovation programs, with policy implications that are in line with UAE Vision 2031 and Centennial 2071.