ABU DHABI, UAE, 25 July 2024: Aldar Properties has received the UAE’s first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) platinum certification for community planning and design for its Athlon project, the company’s active living residential project in Dubai. Making the announcement through a Press Release, Aldar said Athlon has received the recognition for its human-centric focus, purposefully engineered to enhance social cohesion and promote sustainable living practices.

Faisal Falaknaz, Group Chief Financial and Sustainability Officer, Aldar, said, “We are proud that Athlon is the first community in the UAE to receive this recognition, raising the bar for the sustainable design of real estate in the region. LEED is a prestigious global standard, and we are committed to ensuring our real estate projects align with leading global practices. Driving these standards is not only a crucial component of our net zero plan, but it is also something expected by our customers and investors.”

Aldar said the community is designed with energy- and water-saving fixtures, smart waste disposal systems, electric vehicle-charging points, and a network of shaded walkways and bicycle routes to encourage sustainability. Aligning with the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 ambition and Aldar’s Net Zero goals, Athlon will be built using low-carbon and locally sourced materials, Aldar said.

Athlon has received a two-star rating from Fitwel for Communities, a certification system committed to building health for all, Aldar said. Athlon will also feature activities that connect people with green spaces and parks within a half-mile radius from each villa, along with dedicated zones for sports and fitness, the company said.

Since 2023, Aldar said, it has five existing buildings that are LEED platinum certified for Operations and Maintenance (O+M), with several assets currently being assessed for LEED accreditation.