The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Abu Dhabi Energy Services (ADES), a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA), have successfully completed their joint building retrofit project.
The seven buildings include Al Jahili Fort, Al Raha Beach Theatre, Al Qattara Arts Centre, Al Ain Oasis, Zayed Central Library, Al Daham Building and Hosn Al Dhafra (Al Dhafra Fort). Al Jahili Fort is one of the largest forts in the UAE built in the late 1800s with the most sustainable materials of the time. The initiative has reported an improvement of over 29 per cent in energy efficiency annually across the seven heritage and cultural buildings retrofitted.
The project reflects the sustainability objectives championed by Abu Dhabi and the UAE. Developed and executed by ADES, the aim was to realise significant reduction in water and electricity consumption across DCT Abu Dhabi's facilities, to prevent carbon emissions from potential overconsumption. The project underlines both DCT Abu Dhabi and ADES's commitment to sustainable practices and highlights the importance of collaboration in overcoming environmental challenges, reinforcing the principles of a circular economy.
The retrofitting project complements DCT Abu Dhabi’s efforts which include conserving energy and water through efficient lighting, advanced management systems, water-saving fixtures, innovative technologies and regular performance evaluations.
His Excellency Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Preserving Abu Dhabi’s unique culture and heritage is at the core of our mandate. The retrofit project safeguards our invaluable cultural heritage assets for our future generations. Extending sustainability principles across the tourism ecosystem and specifically to our historic architectural gems through our agreement with ADES revitalises iconic structures and ensures the legacy of Abu Dhabi's urban cultural heritage. Together we are paving the way for Abu Dhabi's cultural landmarks to flourish for years to come.”
Khalid Mohamed Al Qubaisi, Chief Executive Officer of ADES, said: “The collaboration with DCT Abu Dhabi exemplifies our shared vision and commitment to advancing the UAE's sustainability objectives and the energy efficiency agenda within the emirate of Abu Dhabi. This project aligns with the objectives of the Abu Dhabi Demand Side Management and Energy Rationalisation (DSM) Strategy 2030 and is a testament to our dedicated efforts towards sustainable practices in the emirate."
This project complements the objectives of the recently unveiled Abu Dhabi Climate Change Strategy – a strategic framework with a focus on strengthening the environmental resilience of the emirate. This blueprint not only envisions steps towards climate neutrality but also reinforces Abu Dhabi's position in the broader UAE sustainability narrative, presenting the emirate as a key player in promoting a balanced and sustainable economic environment.
