Investing in transportation is one of the most effective ways for governments to power prosperity. Transport infrastructure represents 6%-12% of global GDP and supports millions of jobs worldwide. Every $1 billion invested can generate up to 50,000 jobs, making efficient movement of people and goods a true engine of economic growth and inclusion. From the United States to Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), strategic network development has catalyzed regional success stories and enhanced quality of life by boosting trade, manufacturing, and connectivity.
A field-tested blueprint for seamless mobility integration
Countries that achieve the greatest benefits of transport integration start with a bold, long-term vision. This vision highlights connectivity, safety, inclusive growth, and environmental stewardship as national priorities. When leaders translate these ambitions into a comprehensive master plan, they ensure that every investment and initiative is tailored to their country’s geography, demographics, and digital maturity.
A successful transport blueprint brings all modes — roads, rail, sea, air, and urban transit — together under one nationwide strategy. This framework aligns public- and private-sector partners, establishes clear governance, and relies on transparent, data-driven performance management to keep progress on track.
Our research shows that the returns can be significant. In an emerging economy valued at $300 billion, annual investments of $10-15 billion could yield an annual GDP contribution of up to $25-30 billion and potentially create up to 750,000 jobs.
Developed by international best practices and on-the-ground experience, our field-tested methodology helps nations create and deliver integrated transport strategies that achieve measurable, lasting results.
Seven global lessons behind successful transport transformation
Develop a unified national transport strategy: Leading countries develop and implement a comprehensive national strategy that aligns all modes under a singular vision. For example, Germany’s 2030 Federal Transport Infrastructure Plan, Singapore’s Land Transport Master Plan 2040, and Saudi Arabia’s unified oversight through Vision 2030 ensure strategic direction and integrated delivery across the entire transport ecosystem.
Create an integrated multimodal infrastructure master plan: A harmonized master plan connects road, rail, sea, air, and urban mobility for seamless journeys. Singapore’s “20-minute towns” initiative prioritizes multimodal transportation to improve accessibility and livability, demonstrating real benefits for commuters and communities.
Establish a transport management office: Establishing a centralized management body accelerates decision-making and implementation. Saudi Arabia’s Higher Committee for Transportation and Logistics exemplifies how a focused office can streamline governance, coordinate stakeholders, and move projects rapidly from concept to completion.
Implement clear regulatory and institutional frameworks: Clear separation of regulatory, policy-setting, and operational roles supports market competition and safety. Japan’s model, in which independent authorities oversee operations for both public and private sector players, ensures high standards and strong regulatory oversight.
Adopt diverse and innovative funding models: Flexible funding models — combining public investment with private partnerships — enable large-scale, innovative transformation. The US Department of Transportation leverages grants, loans, and private investment, supporting both traditional infrastructure and next-generation mobility solutions.
Embed sustainable and smart mobility solutions into your transport vision: Sustainability and technology are built into the strategy from the start. The UAE is leading in electric vehicle adoption and aims for 25% of trips to be autonomous by 2030, supported by major investments in EV infrastructure and digital mobility platforms.
Localize your supply chain to strengthen national resilience and upskill workforce: Resilient transport depends on strong local supply chains and skilled talent pools. Saudi Arabia is localizing its logistics and automotive manufacturing — like with its Ceer initiative — fostering domestic production, upskilling the workforce, and building national resilience against global disruptions.
A three-phase path to integrated transport strategy execution
Our experience in supporting several countries in developing integrated transport strategies demonstrates that this three-phased approach is most effective:
- Phase One: Set clear priorities, conduct status assessments, and launch high-value projects.
- Phase Two: Activate implementation through a dedicated Transformation Management Office, secure funding, and expand execution.
- Phase Three: Drive continuous improvement, monitor milestones, and adapt to evolving needs with SWAT support teams.
Ensuring transport transformation success through risk management and oversight
Infrastructure-driven transformations require multi-billion-dollar investments, yet industry data show fewer than 10% of projects finish on time and within budget. Less than 1% deliver promised benefits. Our approach addresses root causes: from fragmented sponsor support and suboptimal regulations to unclear benefits and insufficient project owner capabilities.
Disciplined project preparation, robust governance, and transparent performance monitoring are crucial. Comprehensive stakeholder engagement ensures every plan meets the needs of communities, businesses, and governments alike.
Countries that follow this integrated, field-tested approach realize profound gains. The transformative potential extends beyond boosting GDP and job creation — it forges environmental resilience, social cohesion, and long-term national development.
A successful national transport strategy requires vision, collaboration, and a commitment to operational excellence. By integrating every transport mode and aligning all stakeholders, nations can power economic transformation and resilience for generations to come.
Additional contributors: Tarek Alwan, principal, Oliver Wyman. Omar Fathallah, engagement manager, Oliver Wyman. Dani El Kaissi, associate, Oliver Wyman.