PurposeThis study examines the factors affecting organisations' agility and competitive capability in public and private sectors. Drawn from the literature on supply chain agility (SC agility), the factors of supply chain speed, visibility, flexibility, innovation and leadership are tested for further understanding.Design/methodology/approachThrough purposive sampling, a sample of 261 responses was collected using a structured questionnaire. The participants were identified as supply chain practitioners from different industries of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Data were analysed using partial least square-structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM).FindingsFirms can improve the agility of their supply chains by developing strong supply chain leadership and flexibility, increasing the speed and visibility of the supply chain, and through innovation in supply chain operations. Additionally, competitive capabilities can also be enhanced through SC agility.Originality/valueThis study explores organisations' agility and competitive capability in public and private sectors of the UAE. The findings offer numerous practical insights into the UAE's business context and will help firms gain better competitive advantages through agile supply chain operations.