Achieving a 60% reduction in energy consumption is no small feat in the construction industry. This significant decrease represents a major step toward environmental sustainability, achieved through innovative design, efficient building materials, and advanced energy management systems. The Green Mark Platinum SLE certification, awarded by Singapore’s Building and Construction Authority (BCA), recognizes buildings that excel in energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.
In the UAE, notable achievements in sustainable building design have made headlines, with 121 buildings at Expo 2020 Dubai receiving LEED certifications from the United States Green Building Council. Among these, seven buildings attained the prestigious platinum rating, highlighting Dubai’s commitment to eco-friendly development. Regionally, Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea International made history by securing the highest global score for a LEED Platinum certification in the project category, showcasing the region’s dedication to green construction practices.
Amid this growing focus on sustainability, Sobha One in Dubai has emerged as a groundbreaking development. The project recently received the Green Mark Platinum SLE certification, making it the first building outside Singapore to earn this prestigious recognition. This achievement underscores Sobha Realty’s commitment to delivering environmentally responsible living spaces.
The Green Mark certification evaluates projects based on five key categories: resilience, overall carbon footprint, health and well-being, intelligence, and maintainability. Sobha One excelled in these areas, achieving exceptional energy performance with a 60% reduction in energy consumption compared to 2005 standards. This remarkable achievement aligns with the UAE’s net-zero 2050 strategic initiative and demonstrates Sobha Realty’s dedication to their ‘Art of Detail’ philosophy.
Francis Alfred, Managing Director of Sobha Realty, commented: “Sustainability is at the core of our operations. We are proud that Sobha One is the first building in the Middle East to achieve the Green Mark Platinum SLE certification. This milestone sets new benchmarks for sustainable living and low-emission real estate development, reflecting our commitment to innovation, quality, and environmental responsibility in line with the UAE’s long-term vision.”
Sobha Realty’s success can be attributed to its unique backward integration model, which ensures complete control over all stages of development. The company leverages cutting-edge technologies such as computer-aided facility management, common data environment platforms, digital twins, and predictive maintenance dashboards. These tools enhance energy efficiency, optimize resource use, and improve long-term operational performance.
Additionally, Sobha One adheres to climate risk assessment protocols, following the recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). Post-construction, the project will undergo rigorous evaluation to ensure full compliance with Green Mark standards, maintaining its position as a leader in sustainable development.
The Green Mark program, managed by Singapore’s BCA, sets a global benchmark for sustainable building design and best practices. Sobha One’s recognition with this certification reinforces Sobha Realty’s position as a trailblazer in eco-friendly real estate and highlights the UAE’s broader efforts to foster innovation and environmental stewardship in the construction industry.
