Reem Mall secures Estidama 2 Pearl Design Rating

Abu Dhabi’s Reem Mall has received an Estidama 2 Pearl Design Rating from Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC). The $1bn (AED3.67bn) retail, leisure, and entertainment development, which is currently under construction on Abu Dhabi’s Al Reem Island, has been designed to minimise water and energy consumption, optimise waste management, and promote the use of local building materials. Those behind the mall have stated that the Estidama 2 Pearl rating reflects the sustainable considerations that have been incorporated within the building’s design. Commenting on the rating, Shane Eldstrom, chief operating officer of Reem Mall, said: “Reem Mall is committed to environmental sustainability goals of the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council and Abu Dhabi Vision 2030. From the outset, we have strived to exceed the guidelines set out by the UPC by going above and beyond minimum requirements. “We are very proud to say today that our commitment and efforts have led to the project attaining the 2 Pearl Design Rating. There are a number of significant sustainability strategies that we developed and implemented during the design process for Reem Mall, with the goal of becoming a regional leader in sustainable mall development,” he noted. In reference to the elements that contributed to the rating, Mohamed Al Khadar, executive director of Abu Dhabi UPC’s Urban Development & Estidama Sector, said: “The Reem Mall project is well deserving of its Estidama 2 Pearl Design Rating, as the project comprehensively illustrates the integration of the pillars of Estidama, factoring in such components as water, energy, waste management, and local material use. “By achieving a 2 Pearl Design Rating, Reem Mall has exceeded the minimum mandatory 1 Pearl Design Rating requirement for privately funded developments, and we will continue to offer support to the project team as the project progresses with its construction in order to ensure that commitments made for the Design Rating are achieved,” Al Khadar added. Reem Mall’s walls, roof, and glazing have been studied and designed with high-efficient insulation and high-performance materials, according to its designers. The structure also boasts high-efficiency air-conditioning and lighting systems. To reduce the consumption of potable water in the building, efficient water irrigation systems and appliances have also been incorporated into the design. The theme of sustainability will also play an important role in the construction of Reem Mall. At least 70% of onsite waste will be recycled, and 20% of materials will be procured from sources within 500km of the site. Once completed, Reem Mall will feature a range of retail, leisure, and entertainment offerings, including the world’s largest indoor snow play park. The mall, which is being developed by National Real Estate Company (NREC) and United Projects Company (UPAC) is scheduled to open in 2018.

14 May 2016