Abu Dhabi City Municipality is promoting environmentally friendly construction practices through the Estidama Pearl Rating System, which evaluates buildings based on sustainability standards. The system, developed under the Department of Municipalities and Transport, requires all government-funded projects to achieve a minimum two-pearl rating, while privately funded ones must meet at least a one-pearl standard to obtain building permits.

So far this year, the Municipality’s Sustainable Buildings Section has approved 304 projects in the design phase and 81 in the construction phase for meeting these sustainability criteria. The Estidama system includes a mix of mandatory and optional credits that projects can fulfill. Optional credits, if earned, can elevate a building’s sustainability score and help achieve a higher pearl rating.

Key areas assessed include energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor and outdoor livability, use of sustainable materials, and natural systems. For example, projects are encouraged to improve indoor air quality and provide shaded spaces outdoors for added comfort.

The Municipality explained how its Sustainable Buildings Section works closely with project teams. They review designs from the initial stages to ensure compatibility with sustainability standards. Project specifications, including materials, are verified to align with green building requirements, and contractors must implement these during construction.

Specialists called Pearl Qualified Professionals (PQP) are also involved in ensuring compliance. These trained experts guide project teams on meeting Estidama criteria and handle application submissions.

The Municipality noted the benefits of the system, such as extending building lifespans, reducing operating costs, and enhancing comfort for occupants. It also significantly cuts water and energy consumption, helping reduce environmental impact. With the construction sector contributing roughly 40% of annual greenhouse gas emissions, the initiative plays a vital role in Abu Dhabi’s goal of becoming a sustainable city.

By adopting the Estidama Pearl Rating System, Abu Dhabi reinforces its commitment to integrating sustainability principles into urban development and green building practices.