Newsletter
Dear Members of the EmiratesGBC Family,
It is with immense gratitude and enthusiasm that I write to you following my recent selection as a board member and Vice Chair of the Emirates Green Building Council. Becoming part of this dynamic and forward-looking community is both an honour and a responsibility that I embrace wholeheartedly. I would like to take this opportunity to share some personal reflections and aspirations as I embark on this journey with you.
Two years after completing a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, I came to the UAE in 2004 to work as a Facilities Management (FM) Engineer. From those early stages in my career, I have been fascinated by the interplay between human innovation and environmental stewardship. Witnessing the impact of rapid urbanization fuelled by the real estate boom of early 2000s inspired me to seek ways to harmonize growth with environmental sustainability. The built environment, in particular, captured my imagination as a place where meaningful change can occur, where every design decision and operational improvement can contribute to a more sustainable future.
My professional journey has been guided by a commitment to purposeful progress, balancing commercial objectives with positive societal impact. I have been very fortunate to work with forward-thinking organizations and talented teams from tier 1 service providers to the largest real estate developer in the region, tackling complex projects that bridge vision with action. For the last 20 years, I have played an active role in the Facility Management and Energy Management sectors in the UAE, spearheading numerous initiatives focused on energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. These projects have not only delivered measurable environmental gains but have also generated tangible value across the assets involved. At Aldar, my current role allows me to further this mission by integrating sustainability into the operational phase of our assets. This position empowers me to shape policies and practices that not only enhance our portfolio but also allow me to engage our communities for active participation in our shared goals.
This same ethos of impact and collaboration is what makes my appointment as Vice Chair of EmiratesGBC so meaningful, and for which I am very grateful to both Aldar Properties and the Emirates Green Building Council. In this role, I’m committed to serving our members, fostering cross-industry partnerships, and advancing the highest standards of sustainability and innovation, both within the UAE and across the region. Together, we have the potential to redefine what leadership looks like in the built environment, and to ensure that our actions today lay the foundation for a more resilient tomorrow.
This sense of purpose is underscored by the urgency of our global challenge. According to the 2024 Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction (GlobalABC), the buildings sector accounts for nearly 21% of global greenhouse gas emissions—placing it squarely at the center of the climate conversation. With such significant influence, our industry holds immense potential to lead transformative change: from designing energy-efficient buildings and minimizing embodied carbon, to constructing resilient spaces that can withstand the impacts of a changing climate. By embracing innovation, rethinking resource flows, and fostering collaboration across the entire value chain, we can accelerate progress toward net zero, safeguard natural ecosystems, and build communities that thrive. This is not just a responsibility—it’s a remarkable opportunity to shape a more sustainable future.
I look forward to fostering an open, inclusive, and collaborative environment within the EmiratesGBC community. My commitment is to listen actively, engage meaningfully, and support initiatives that drive tangible progress. Through regular dialogue, joint projects, and knowledge-sharing platforms, I hope to strengthen the bonds between our members and partners, ensuring that every voice is heard and every idea valued. Together, we can turn aspirations into achievements that resonate across the region.
As we look to the future, let us remember that lasting change is born of shared purpose and collective endeavour. I invite each of you to remain bold in your ambitions, generous in your collaboration, and relentless in your pursuit of sustainability. Let us continue to learn from one another, challenge the status quo, and champion solutions that benefit both people and planet without compromising stakeholder value. Together, we can ensure that the legacy of the EmiratesGBC is one of innovation, integrity, and positive transformation for generations to come.
Thank you again for welcoming me into this inspiring community. I look forward to working alongside you all as we shape a brighter, greener future.
Sayeeduddin Mohammed
Vice Chair, Emirates Green Building Council
Vice President – Environmental Management & Circularity | Aldar Properties PJSC
linkedin.com/in/sayeidz
EmiratesGBC NEWS AND UPDATES
EmiratesGBC July Networking Session Welcomes New MENA Regional Leaders
EmiratesGBC hosted an exclusive networking session on 18 July, bringing together thought leaders, changemakers, and members of the EmiratesGBC community.
The Council proudly welcomed Mr. Mohammad Jebreel in his new role as Chair of the MENA Regional Network – World Green Building Council, and Mr. Ibrahim Kronfol as the newly appointed Vice Chair.
Together, we reflected on key developments shaping the MENA green building landscape, shared regional insights, and spotlighted best practices driving sustainable transformation in the built environment.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our members who joined and helped make this gathering both insightful and inspiring.
Welcoming Our New Vice Chair: Sayeeduddin Mohammed
The Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Sayeeduddin Mohammed as a board member and the new Vice Chair, succeeding Mohammad Jebreel, who has served with distinction over the past one and half year. He currently serves as Vice President of Environmental Management and Circularity at Aldar Properties PJSC, where he leads the development and implementation of strategic sustainability initiatives across the built environment. Mr. Mohammed has played a pivotal role in delivering key projects such as Aldar’s portfolio-wide energy management strategy, a distributed renewable energy program, and an innovative Cooling as a Service (CaaS) solution. We extend our sincere gratitude to Mohammad Jebreel for his leadership, commitment, and contributions during his tenure.
Please join us in welcoming Sayeeduddin to this important role.
UPCOMING EMIRATESGBC EVENTS
Raising the Ambition of the Construction Sector in the NDCs
By Invitation Only
On 19 August 2025, EmiratesGBC will host a high-impact workshop at Novotel Al Barsha aimed at amplifying national, regional, and global influence on climate policy through the built environment. As 2025 marks a crucial turning point ahead of COP30 in Brazil, countries are expected to submit updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to meet their Paris Agreement targets. However, current NDCs fall short—projecting a temperature rise of 2.5–2.9°C. To close this ambition gap, it’s essential that countries integrate robust building sector strategies into their climate plans—NDCs that are truly #BoldOnBuildings.
This workshop will provide hands-on training with the World Green Building Council’s (WorldGBC) NDC Scorecard Tool, launched in 2024 to help governments evaluate their building measures against best-practice sustainable policies. Participants will engage in a gap analysis of the UAE’s NDC, develop actionable next steps for climate-resilient construction, and connect with policymakers, experts, and industry leaders driving forward climate ambition. Developed through global consultation and piloted across five countries—the Scorecard is a practical step toward embedding decarbonised, future-ready buildings into national climate strategies.
World Green Building Week 2025
From 8-12 September, Emirates Green Building Council will mark World Green Building Week with a dynamic week-long series of events, bringing together industry leaders, professionals, and changemakers. The program will feature roundtables, panel discussions, and networking sessions that delve into key sustainability topics. Highlights of the week include discussions on women’s leadership in sustainability, innovations in energy and water management, digital transformation, federal carbon reporting policies, and regional collaboration with MENA Green Building Councils.
The theme for WGBW 2025 is “Business Goes Better When You’re Bold on Buildings“, and EmiratesGBC is proud to champion this call to action.
Stay tuned for upcoming announcements and opportunities to engage—from advocacy initiatives to event participation. Keep an eye on our newsletters to be part of this bold movement.
Industry Partner Events
Ras Al Khaimah Investment & Business Summit (RAKIS)
The Ras Al Khaimah Investment and Business Summit returns for its 2nd edition on 19–20 November 2025 at Al Hamra International Exhibition & Conference Center. Join global leaders and investors to explore opportunities across Real Estate & Infrastructure, Tourism & Hospitality, Manufacturing & Business, and Investment & Finance.
EMIRATESGBC TECHNICAL WORKSHOP FOR MEMBERS BY MEMBERS
The EmiratesGBC 8th (2025) Technical Workshop
For members by members will be by WSP on the 8th of August, 11:00 Am – 12:00 Pm, Title:” Decarbonization through Accountability “. The workshop will be held online format via Teams; invitation sent to all Members.
GREEN KEY
The Green Key programme is a leading standard of excellence in the field of environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism industry. It is operated internationally under the management of the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) with Head Offices in Copenhagen, Denmark. FEE has national member organizations in more than 70 countries worldwide where Emirates Green Building Council is the national operator in the United Arab Emirates.
MEMBERS & PARTNERS
Turning Buildings into Food-Producing Ecosystems
Iman Naraghi
Managing Director and Founder
Urban Agritechs
We’re excited to share a bold new research initiative being undertaken by Urban Agritechs in exploring how residential buildings can evolve into active contributors to urban food systems—through the integration of vertical farming into shared common areas.
Rather than treat vertical farms as standalone commercial ventures, this study reimagines them as core building features, leveraging rooftops, courtyards, and amenity spaces for localized food production. This creates new value for buildings, transforming them from passive shelters into productive, sustainable ecosystems.
Our research asks a powerful question: What could the future look like if buildings helped feed their own residents?
By starting with crops like leafy greens, herbs, and strawberries, we’re modeling the space needed to support residents’ diets while addressing food insecurity, wellness, and environmental impact.
This vision aligns with the future of the green building: multifunctional spaces that serve both people and the planet. We’re proud to be at the forefront—and excited to share more with the Emirates Green Building Council.
Please keep an eye out for more details of our findings and feel free to get in touch via [email protected] if you have any questions or would like to contribute to this research in any way!
Sustainability that Pays: Proof from St. Regis Saadiyat Island
Passive Cooling Solutions by LHS Deliver Measurable Impact
At the prestigious St. Regis Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, Leading Hospitality Services (LHS) has introduced passive cooling innovations that demonstrate how sustainability can be both practical and high-performing.
The journey began at Sontaya, the resort’s overwater Southeast Asian restaurant, where i2Film –a transparent, electricity-free cooling film– was applied to reduce solar heat gain while preserving clear views. The installation is projected to save over 122,000 kWh of energy annually, enhancing guest comfort while lowering energy demand.
Building on this success, LHS implemented i2Coating –an electricity-free cooling paint– on the rooftop of the Regal Ballroom, a high-exposure area. The coating reduced surface temperatures by up to 22.7 °C, easing the load on HVAC systems and supporting long-term energy efficiency.
Together, these solutions reflect LHS’s commitment to sustainable transformation; offering high-impact, low-disruption upgrades tailored to the needs of hospitality environments.
Key Insight:
These installations at St. Regis Saadiyat Island reaffirm that passive cooling can deliver measurable energy savings, enhance guest comfort, and support long-term sustainability goals — without compromising design or operations.
To learn more about how LHS is enabling energy-efficient operations across the region, visit www.leadinghospitality.ae
MEMBERS OPPORTUNITES
We want to feature your success stories. Please share with us your accomplishments in relation to the green building industry and allow us to feature you in our newsletter.
For more information, please contact [email protected].
EmiratesGBC WOMEN NETWORK SPOTLIGHT!
Radhika Arapally
Founder
Sustainability Kiosk
1. Who You Are:
- Beyond your professional role, tell us a bit about yourself. What drives and inspires you personally? Whether it’s hobbies, interests, or values, we’d love to learn more about the person behind the professional achievements
Curious by nature and deeply committed to impact, I’m a mother, traveler, and lover of stories that spark change. I find inspiration in local communities, cultures, and the idea that small actions can shape better systems. Outside work, I enjoy walking, slow travel, and sharing sustainability insights through our podcast, Sustainability Stories. My values are rooted in integrity, learning, and community – and I believe in creating spaces where purpose and profit can co-exist.
2. Career Journey and Achievements:
- Can you share a brief overview of your career journey in the field of sustainability? What achievements or projects are you most proud of in advancing sustainable practices?
After nearly two decades in corporate life, mostly in hospitality, I founded Sustainability Kiosk — a platform dedicated to accelerating sustainability across the hospitality sector in the Middle East. I’m proud to have led impactful initiatives such as food waste certifications, carbon footprint studies, and the Responsible Hoteliers Summit. In 2025, I also joined the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, an NGO based in London, to support the Net Positive Hospitality mission in the region. These roles allow me to blend strategy with on-the-ground implementation – the sweet spot for lasting change.
- 3. Challenges and Triumphs:
- As a woman in the sustainability sector, have you faced any specific challenges, and how did you overcome them? On the flip side, what triumphs or successes have been particularly meaningful in your career?
One challenge was transitioning from a corporate role into entrepreneurship, learning to trust myself while building credibility from the ground up. In an industry that often sees sustainability as a ‘nice to have,’ I had to show it could be a commercial differentiator. A major triumph was seeing a hotel group adopt a sustainability framework we developed and achieve measurable impact across energy and waste. It was a moment of quiet affirmation – proof that persistence and partnership do pay off. I remain deeply grateful to my female partners who have been with me since the early days — relentlessly committed to driving impact, even when the path was unclear.
4. Impact and Advice:
- How do you see your role contributing to the broader goals of sustainability? Additionally, what advice would you offer to other women aspiring to make a difference in the field of sustainability?
Through consulting, training, and industry collaborations, I help hotels embed sustainability into their operations and culture. I see my role as a connector – bringing together people, knowledge, and practical solutions to drive change. My advice to other women: speak up, stay curious, and don’t wait for permission. Sustainability needs your voice, especially in industries where it’s not yet centre stage. Be bold but also build community – it makes the journey more meaningful.
REACH US
Members of the Emirates Green Building Council can join in any of our technical programs, to advance their knowledge on the program’s relevant topics, contribute to its growth, and sponsor its events. We are working on several ideas related to our programs: Coalition for Green Schools, Health and Wellbeing, Net Zero Center of Excellence, Energy Efficiency, Green Key and Benchmarking Program.
Kindly send us an email to [email protected] to inquire about any of the mentioned technical programs.
EmiratesGBC Sustainability Lounge is now available for meetings and workshops!
If you are interested in using the EmiratesGBC Sustainability Lounge for a workshop or a meeting, kindly get in touch with us at 04-3468244 or send us an email to [email protected]. The office room is fully equipped with AV and provides a pleasant environment for focused meetings or training workshops.
Recent ISSUES
New Members
Industry Partner
GF Corys
Climatize Engineering Consultants
Howden Guardian Insurance Brokers L.L.C.
Individual Members
Tarek Abdelmoaez Elsayed Abdelrasoul
Ramkrishna Kashyap
Kumar Abhishek
Ketankumar Krishnamurari Dixit
Christine Duran
Upcoming Events
Technical Workshop by WSP
8 August
Raising the Ambition of the Construction Sector in the NDCs
19 August
Think Green
Think Green, Act Smart: Test Your Sustainability Skills
Fill in the Blank Sustainability Quiz
(renewable, design, carbon, 2050, sustainable, building, estidama, profit, energy, carbon)
- The process of designing buildings to be environmentally responsible and resource-efficient is called Green ___________.
- ___________ energy sources like solar and wind are key to reducing carbon emissions.
- The three pillars of sustainability are People, Planet, and ___________.
- LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental ___________.
- ___________ footprint measures the total greenhouse gas emissions caused by an individual, organization, or product.
- Using materials like recycled steel and bamboo supports ___________ construction.
- ___________ certification in the UAE promotes sustainability in building design, construction, and operation.
- Turning off lights when not in use is a simple way to reduce ___________ consumption.
- Buildings are responsible for nearly 40% of global ___________ emissions.
- The UAE’s Net Zero by ___________ strategic initiative aims to reduce emissions and combat climate change.