Green Building Practice in UAE-Abstract

Dubai area is divided into 3 sections, governed by different Authorities viz. Dubai Municipality, TECOM      (Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone Authority) and JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority). Each Authority is enforcing the Green Code independently.

The Green building regulations have come into effect in line with H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai directive of Green Dubai 2008. All new constructions after January 2008, to be compliant with 32 credits.

The Projects in the JAFZA area have been governed by JAFZA regulations and EHS (Environment Health and Safety Division). The EHS Authority has made it mandatory to achieve a minimum of 32 credits in the LEED certification. Some Master Developers like NAKHEEL, who are developing the three Palm developments (namely the Palm Jumeriah, Palm Jebel Ali and Palm Deira), have a mandatory regulation to achieve GOLD rating LEED certifications.

The EmiratesGreenBuilding Council was formed to this effect. But the EGBC has adopted the norms as laid down by the USGreenBuilding Council. The norms are being modified and adapted to suit the climatology and local environment.
 The paper highlights the the main provisions of EGBC and its impact on the GreenBuilding Initiative in the UAE