Sustainable development in the construction industry is crucial for reducing environmental harm, using resources more efficiently, and creating long-term social and economic benefits. However, in many developing countries, the journey toward sustainability is slowed by a range of barriers, from financial constraints to outdated policies. Understanding these obstacles is vital for those seeking to drive real change. In this study, the barriers to sustainable development have been extracted from the literature and categorized, leading to a multi-level understanding of the key areas hindering the implementation and management of sustainability. After identifying the barriers, they were categorized into seven main groups: Economical, Technical and Technological, Knowledge and Awareness, Regulatory and Policy, Cultural and Behavioral, Governance and management, and Market. By shedding light on these barriers, this research provides important insights for policymakers, construction professionals, and researchers. It offers a clear framework to understand and tackle the challenges standing in the way of sustainable construction, particularly in developing countries where such efforts are most needed. The ultimate goal is to help pave the way for more sustainable practices, improving the construction industry’s environmental, social, and economic outcomes