One of the fundamental challenges in managing Iranian cities, particularly metropolises, is the multiplicity and diversity of administrative-spatial division levels. Various government organizations, departments, and sectors typically maintain their own specific spatial divisions within metropolises. This heterogeneity and inconsistency create unnecessary complexity in spatial-administrative divisions and pose challenges to achieving effective governance. This research examines the heterogeneity of spatial-administrative divisions in Ahvaz metropolis and the resulting challenges.

Methodologically, this study falls within qualitative research and is exploratory-applied in nature. In the qualitative phase, the Delphi technique was employed to determine research components and indicators, with interviews conducted with 15 experts. Subsequently, using Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) and MICMAC analysis, factor leveling and analysis were performed.

The research findings indicate that heterogeneous administrative-spatial divisions in Ahvaz represent not only a structural issue but also a self-reinforcing systemic problem that can persist through negative feedback mechanisms such as institutional competition. The final model reveals four key factors at different levels: integrated urban management at the fundamental level, legal and regulatory indicators at the third level, quality of life at the second level, and governance at the first level. This heterogeneity undermines the quality of urban governance by creating power fragmentation, reducing transparency, and increasing transaction costs.

Breaking this vicious cycle requires simultaneous intervention at legal (reforming centralized laws), institutional (organizational integration), and social levels. This research confirms This research confirms the necessity of fundamental revision in administrative-spatial divisions as a key factor in improving urban governance and integrated management in Ahvaz metropolis.