Top green projects in Abu Dhabi: A comprehensive guide
- UAE Green Agenda 2030
- Abu Dhabi Green Building Regulations
- Sustainable Developments in Abu Dhabi Masdar City
- The Sustainable City Yas Island
- Other Green Projects in Abu Dhabi Yas Island
- FAQs
Abu Dhabi is committed to green projects that align with the UAE’s sustainable development goals. From urban planning to sustainable buildings, green projects in Abu Dhabi are shaping eco-friendly urban living. This comprehensive guide explores the latest green projects in Abu Dhabi that are making waves in sustainability.
The UAE’s Green Agenda 2030 and Green Projects in Abu Dhabi
The UAE’s Green Agenda 2030 highlights the country’s aim to support the global agenda for environmental sustainability, pioneering green innovation and achieving a clean and zero-emissions future. Sustainable developments in Abu Dhabi provide insights into the ongoing transformation of the UAE capital into a model of environmental responsibility.
The top 10 green projects in Abu Dhabi include the eco-friendly developments in Masdar City and Yas Island. But first, let’s look at Abu Dhabi’s Green Building Regulations.
Abu Dhabi’s Green Building Regulations
Abu Dhabi Green Building Regulations aim to improve the quality of life and reduce the environmental impact of buildings in the emirate. These ratings support the UAE Theme of the Year for 2024 – the Year of Sustainability.
Estidama Pearl Rating System
The cornerstone of Abu Dhabi’s green building regulations is the Estidama Pearl Rating System (EPRS). Estidama, which means ‘sustainability’ in Arabic, is a comprehensive framework that addresses sustainability throughout a project’s lifecycle, from design and construction to operation.
The Estidama Pearl rating system has seven fundamental categories: the Integrated Development Process, Natural Systems, Livable Communities, Precious Water, Resourceful Energy, Stewarding Materials and Innovative Practice.
Other green building rating systems implemented globally include LEED certification and WELL certification.
Implementation of laws for new developments
Implementing the Estidama Pearl Rating System has been a game-changer for the construction industry. Since 2010, it has been mandatory for all new buildings in Abu Dhabi to obtain a minimum one-pearl rating, while government buildings and residential villas must achieve a two-pearl rating.
Impact on the construction industry
Estidama Pearl Rating System has profoundly impacted the construction industry in Abu Dhabi. One of the system’s most innovative features is the Construction Audit Protocol.
The impact of these regulations is already evident. Estidama buildings have shown a 31% reduction in designed energy use and a 37% reduction in designed water use. Moreover, 65% of construction waste has been diverted from landfills, contributing significantly to the UAE’s sustainable development goals.
Masdar City: The Blueprint of Sustainable Developments in Abu Dhabi
Masdar City is a sustainable urban development in Abu Dhabi, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to eco-friendly initiatives and sustainable buildings.
Top 10 green projects in Abu Dhabi Masdar City: Residential and commercial
- IRENA HQ Building
- IRENA was the first UAE building to receive a 4 Pearl Estidama rating for energy and water conservation efforts.
- Siemens Building
- Siemens Middle East HQ is Abu Dhabi’s first LEED Platinum office building, designed with energy-efficient technologies.
- Incubator Building
- The Incubator Building is built with smart shading and innovative design to promote environmental sustainability.
- Tabreed Building
- Tabreed Building in Masdar City’s R&D cluster incorporates sustainable design with a 3 Pearl Estidama rating and efficient cooling technologies.
- NZ1
- NZ1 is the region’s first net-zero energy commercial building.
- It was awarded the Net-Zero Building Project of 2023 at the MENA Green Building Awards.
- NZ1 aims for LEED Zero Energy and LEED Platinum ratings, the highest international green building certifications awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council.
- It is also on track to be rated Estidama 4-Pearl and WELL Gold.
- Learnado Residence
- Reportage’s first project in Masdar City enjoys direct access to the ‘green belt.’
- Oasis 1 Residences
- The 9-storey residential building has been recognised with a 3 Pearl building rating for exceeding the Estidama Energy and Sustainability regulations.
- Oasis 2 Residences
- Oasis 2 also boasts a 3 Pearl building rating for exceeding the energy and sustainability regulations set by Estidama.
- Eco Residences 1
- This 11-tower residential development owned by Masdar Green REIT has been awarded dual green building certifications: A Platinum certification from LEED and a 3 Pearl rating from the Estidama Rating System (PBRS).
- Eco Residences 2
- The mixed-use development, comprising six buildings and over 500 units, aims to create a vibrant urban environment promoting sustainable and active lifestyles.
Upcoming green projects in Abu Dhabi Masdar City
- Masdar City Square
- A cluster of seven commercial buildings designed to encourage community and shared purpose.
- The focal point of this development is a net-zero energy corporate headquarters, the first of its kind in Abu Dhabi
- Plaza by Reportage
- Embracing Abu Dhabi’s forward-thinking sustainability mentality, Plaza by Reportage has been awarded a 3 Pearls rating, seamlessly combining contemporary design and luxury.
- Al Mahra Residence
- Al Mahra Residence aims to build a sustainable community prioritising comfort, leisure and overall well-being.
The Sustainable City – Yas Island
One of the most notable green projects in Abu Dhabi is The Sustainable City – Yas Island, a collaborative effort between ALDAR Properties and Diamond Developers. This innovative development has been awarded the prestigious “Estidama 5 Pearl” classification, the highest rating under Abu Dhabi’s Pearl Villa Rating System (PVRS).
The Sustainable City—Yas Island incorporates various sustainable practices, including renewable energy sources, water conservation, waste management and green building techniques.
Green building practices in The Sustainable City, Yas Island
The community features energy-efficient building designs, comprehensive water conservation measures, green spaces and pedestrian-friendly pathways.
One of the development’s key features is its focus on reducing carbon emissions. The community includes ten car-free residential clusters, communal battery-charged buggies and bicycles to encourage walkability and accessibility for all residents.
Energy-efficient designs and sustainable construction in Abu Dhabi
Homes in The Sustainable City – Yas Island will be green developments in Abu Dhabi. They will be powered by solar energy panels on residential and parking structures to allow residents to save up to 50% on their energy bills.
The development also features a central green spine, biodomes to encourage community farming and intelligent irrigation systems to conserve water. Electric vehicle charging stations, low-flow water fixtures, recycled materials and low-carbon products are used throughout the development.
Other Sustainable developments in Abu Dhabi Yas Island
Yas Island will be home to many green projects in Abu Dhabi. Here are some projects currently in the construction stage.
- Yas Riva – ALDAR’s exclusive canal-facing villa development targets a 3 Pearl Estidama rating for the houses and a 2 Pearl Estidama rating for the community. Yas Riva also aims for a 2-star rating from Fitwel, the world’s leading certification system for healthy communities.
- The Source II by ALDAR – Targeting a 2 Pearl Estidama rating and LEED certification.
- Sama Yas – ALDAR Properties’ project will aim to achieve the Estidama 3 Pearl rating.
- Gardenia Bay – The project by ALDAR Properties on Yas Island will feature monitoring meters to reduce energy, water and waste consumption to achieve a Pearl 3 Estidama rating.
- Sea La Vie – The project by Nine Yards Real Estate Development will use eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems to create environmentally sustainable homes.
FAQs about green projects in Abu Dhabi
What is the greenest area in Abu Dhabi?
For a green escape in Abu Dhabi, you can visit Al Wathba Wetland Reserve or paddle through the Mangrove National Park, which features a dense mangrove forest and a winding water channel.
What are the upcoming commercial green projects in Abu Dhabi?
Regarding green projects in Abu Dhabi 2024, ALDAR Properties and Mubadala Investment Company will collaborate for One Maryah Place, a two-tower Grade A commercial development on Al Maryah Island. Both towers will target ‘LEED Gold’ certification and an ‘Estidama 3 Pearl’ rating.
What is the renewable energy project in Abu Dhabi?
The Energy Cluster in Masdar City uses renewable resources like solar and wind power. Companies such as Masdar, Siemens Energy and Volts are at the forefront of powering the future sustainably.
Which development is considered the most sustainable in the UAE?
The Sustainable City in Yas Island is a significant UAE innovation and sustainability centre with a 5 Pearl Estidama Rating.
What smart city technologies are used in Masdar City?
Masdar City is implementing real-time energy, water and waste monitoring in all its buildings to enhance its sustainability efforts.
Forty Guard, part of Masdar City’s Innovate programme, is an initiative to develop a cloud-based AI tool to provide enriched temperature insights, understand heat patterns and create construction materials that help reduce outdoor surface heat.
What sustainable transportation solutions are part of green projects in Abu Dhabi?
Masdar City has created an interconnected system of sustainable mobility options, focusing on eco-friendly alternatives like electric vehicles.
- The Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) system is an autonomous electric transportation system.
- Masdar City’s NAVYA is an autonomous and 100% electric car (shuttle) designed for eco-friendly and comfortable public transport.
- Masdar City will host the Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industries (SAVI) cluster in Abu Dhabi.
That’s all we have regarding green developments in Abu Dhabi. To learn more about life in Abu Dhabi, subscribe to MyBayut!
Featured image credit: Masdar City official website.
