Latest news with #LEEDGoldCertification
Kuwait Times
14-07-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
NBK becomes a Platinum Member of Kuwait Green Building Council
Reflecting bank's commitment to achieving sustainability, responsible environmental practices KUWAIT: In an unprecedented step towards enhancing its sustainable efforts and responsible environmental practices, National Bank of Kuwait signed an agreement with the Kuwait Green Building Council (KGBC) by which it has become a Platinum member and the first bank in Kuwait to join the council. NBK is the only bank to have obtained the LEED Gold Certification for its headquarters, mirroring its dedication to adopting the highest sustainability standards in the design and construction of its facilities. This agreement aims to enhance collaborations between NBK and KGBC to shape a sustainable future for Kuwait. The agreement will involve the bank's active participation in the council's programs, campaigns, initiatives, and the sharing of its expertise in this field. Under this agreement, NBK can benefit from a variety of programs, including specialized training, workshops, and seminars that have been tailored to enhance the knowledge of KGBC members in green buildings and sustainable construction practices, keep them updated with the field's latest development, and provide them with technical consultations that help them understand and apply green standards and practices. Moreover, council members can attend all NBK's activities, including conferences, seminars, and panel discussions, which presents a remarkable opportunity for field enthusiasts to communicate and exchange ideas. In this light, NBK is organizing an exclusive tour for approximately 30 visitors from KGBC at its LEED Gold certified headquarters to explore the features of the building's sustainable design and energy-saving operations in addition to its environmental responsibility as per world green building standards. NBK constantly supports sustainable development and promotes green practices in the construction field aimed at conserving natural resources, as it firmly believes that green buildings play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable and safe future for Kuwait. As a responsible and sustainable financial institution, NBK strives to make positive impact that reflects its continuous efforts during the past years in promoting all sustainable practices and supporting Kuwait's low-carbon emissions agenda. Additionally, NBK continues to work hand in hand with its strategic partners to develop and execute sustainable projects that aim to make real and tangible changes, as well as participate in several purposeful initiatives to raise awareness about the significance of green buildings. The Kuwait Green Building Council was established as a non-profit, non-governmental entity in 2017. As a membership-based organization, KGBC aims to encourage and promote sustainable development in Kuwait, and it's a member of a global network of more than 75 green building councils operating under the umbrella of the World Green Building Council. It is worth noting that NBK has always been the first to take the initiative and support all green projects aimed at enhancing sustainability efforts. It has also made significant strides in the field of environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG), making sustainability a fundamental pillar in all its business operations and corporate culture, which enhances the transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy in line with Kuwait's strategic agenda. •NBK is committed to promoting sustainable development by incorporating sustainable practices in the construction field. •This partnership reflects a joint vision that strives to build a sustainable future for Kuwait.
Kuwait Times
21-06-2025
- Politics
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait's T2 meets LEED Gold standards, local accessibility code
KUWAIT: Kuwait's Cabinet on Tuesday reviewed the progress of Terminal 2 (T2) at Kuwait International Airport, highlighting its achievement in earning the LEED Gold Certification — a milestone that places the project among the most environmentally sustainable airport terminals in the region. The update came during the Cabinet's weekly meeting at Bayan Palace, chaired by His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. Minister of Public Works Dr Noura Al-Mashaan presented a comprehensive visual briefing detailing the airport's design and infrastructure components, which include the terminal building, support facilities, aircraft stands and access roads. Dr Al-Mashaan announced that the terminal was awarded LEED Gold (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), a globally recognized sustainability rating system overseen by the US Green Building Council. The certification affirms that the terminal meets rigorous environmental standards across energy efficiency, water conservation, building materials and indoor environmental quality. The Cabinet praised the Ministry of Public Works, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, and all contributing teams for delivering a future-focused project that aligns with Kuwait's national sustainability and development goals. Officials emphasized that the terminal's green design is not only a technical achievement but also a reflection of Kuwait's growing commitment to environmental stewardship in public infrastructure. The LEED-certified terminal incorporates advanced energy systems, natural lighting, and sustainable materials to reduce the building's carbon footprint. It is also expected to contribute significantly to improving passenger capacity and operational efficiency. In a related statement, Minister of Social Affairs and Minister of Family and Childhood Affairs Dr Amthal Al-Huwailah emphasized that the new terminal is also fully committed to applying the Kuwait Accessibility Code, a universal design framework that ensures the facility accommodates the needs of all members of society, including persons with disabilities, the elderly, and individuals with special needs. Al-Huwailah told Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that the project includes sensory rooms designed specifically for those who may experience challenges in high-stimulation environments, such as children with autism or individuals with cognitive impairments and age-related conditions like Alzheimer's. She explained that the Public Authority for Persons with Disabilities has worked closely with the Ministry of Public Works, Kuwait Municipality, and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation to ensure the terminal's design reflects Kuwait's national values of inclusion, social justice and accessibility. 'The adoption of the national accessibility code in the new airport project is a model of institutional integration and embodies the state's vision for an inclusive built environment that serves all members of society without exception,' Al-Huwailah said. The Kuwait Accessibility Code is a set of nationally approved technical and engineering standards aimed at making public and private spaces accessible and usable by everyone — especially people with disabilities and the elderly— through universal design principles. — KUNA
Zawya
15-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Majid Al Futtaim unveils Junction: A landmark business and lifestyle hub in West Cairo
Cairo, Egypt – Majid Al Futtaim, a leading shopping mall, communities, retail, and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, today announced the official launch of Junction, its first-ever business park in Egypt. Strategically located next to the Mall of Egypt, Junction is a cutting-edge, eco-conscious development that integrates smart technology with premium amenities to attract a diverse range of businesses. The launch of this latest development plays a pivotal role in Majid Al Futtaim's refounding journey and marks a bold step in expanding its commercial footprint, reinforcing the company's long-term commitment to Egypt's economic growth and urban development. Bringing together the premium business and lifestyle offerings, Junction spans over more than 129,000 sqm across two interconnected plots. The development features 13 cutting-edge office buildings, a curated retail and F&B experience, and sustainable infrastructure designed to achieve LEED Gold Certification. As a flagship development within Majid Al Futtaim's extensive investment portfolio in Egypt, Junction represents a dedicated investment of EGP 15 billion into West Cairo's commercial landscape. With more than 8,000 of direct and indirect roles created, Junction contributes significantly to Egypt's ongoing economic growth and urban evolution. 'Junction marks a pivotal step in our continued commitment to shaping vibrant, future-ready communities across Egypt,' commented Ahmed El Shamy, Chief Executive Officer of Majid Al Futtaim Properties. In this project, we are not just developing office spaces, we are building an integrated ecosystem that fosters innovation, attracts visionary talent, and sets a new standard for mixed-use business destinations in the region. As Egypt's market continues to show strong growth and demand for world-class infrastructure, Junction is our response: a sustainable, forward-thinking environment designed to support long-term economic vitality and environmental stewardship.' Designed with flexibility and future-readiness at its core, the business park encompasses 97,000 sqm of state-of-the-art space, offering contemporary architecture, cascading terraces, double-height lobbies, and shaded promenades that prioritize climate-conscious design. Tenants and visitors will benefit from more than 1,700 parking spaces, 40 vibrant retail outlets, 15 distinctive F&B destinations, and seamless pedestrian access to the Mall of Egypt delivering a perfectly integrated experience where productivity, connectivity, and lifestyle converge. With a proven track record in delivering transformative business parks across Oman and Lebanon, Majid Al Futtaim brings trusted regional expertise to Egypt's rapidly evolving commercial landscape. Junction is more than a workplace, it's a catalyst for a thriving, future-focused business community.
Gulf Business
21-03-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Hamad International Airport unveils new concourses, expands capacity
Image: Hamad International Airport Hamad International Airport (DOH), ranked the World's Best Airport and Best Airport Shopping by Skytrax 2024, has officially inaugurated its highly anticipated Concourses D and E. The expansion increases the airport's annual passenger capacity to over 65 million, further cementing Doha's position as a key global aviation hub. The development marks a major milestone in the airport's long-term growth strategy, initiated in 2018 and culminating in this final phase. The expansion follows the 2022 unveiling of the ORCHARD, a 6,000-square-metre indoor tropical garden, and increases the terminal's total area to 842,000 square meters, a 14 per cent rise. The addition of 17 new aircraft contact gates brings the total to 62—nearly 40 per cent more than before — enhancing connectivity and reducing reliance on bus transfers. Strategic Expansion to Strengthen Qatar's aviation sector 'Hamad International Airport is more than a gateway; it is a vital pillar of Qatar's growth and global connectivity,' said Qatar Airways group CEO Engineer Badr Mohammed Al-Meer. 'Despite global delays in airport expansions, we have successfully delivered this project ahead of schedule. This expansion is not just about increasing capacity — it strengthens the Qatar Airways network, enhances operational resilience, and supports Qatar's economic growth in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030.' Hamad Ali Al Khater, Chief Operating Officer at Hamad International Airport, emphasised the operational benefits: 'The opening of Concourses D and E streamlines passenger flow, optimizes resource management, and enhances airline connectivity, ensuring smoother and more efficient services.' Enhancements at Hamad International Airport The newly inaugurated concourses introduce cutting-edge technology and expanded retail and dining options, enhancing passenger experience: 1. The new self-boarding technology speeds up the verification process, reducing wait times and improving passenger flow. 2. Qatar Duty Free has unveiled over 10 new retail and food and beverage outlets, adding 2,700 square metres of shopping space. 3. Increased gate capacity enables more international carriers to operate direct flights to key global destinations. Hamad International Airport continues to lead in sustainable aviation, with Concourses D and E designed to meet GSAS 4-Star Design & Build Certification and targeting LEED Gold Certification. Energy-efficient systems, innovative water management, and optimised thermal comfort strategies align with global sustainability goals. Accessibility remains a priority, with universal design principles ensuring a seamless experience for all travelers. Features such as hearing loops, barrier-free pathways, and dedicated assistance services underscore the airport's commitment to inclusivity. The unveiling of the new concourses marks the final stage of
Zawya
20-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Hamad International Airport unveils state-of-the-art concourses D and E
DOHA, Qatar/PRNewswire/ -- Hamad International Airport (DOH), ranked as the World's Best Airport and Airport Shopping by Skytrax 2024, has officially unveiled its highly anticipated Concourses D and E, marking a major milestone in its expansion and increasing its capacity to over 65 million passengers annually. The new concourses integrate seamlessly into the existing terminal, introducing cutting-edge technology and enhanced facilities to meet growing passenger demand. The terminal now spans 845,000 square metres - a 14% increase - while the addition of 17 new aircraft contact gates increases the total to 62, nearly 40% more than before, ensuring greater connectivity, streamlined operations, and significantly reducing bus transfers. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said:"Hamad International Airport is more than a gateway; it is a vital pillar of Qatar's growth and global connectivity. I am pleased to see this expansion project, with conclusion of both concourses going live, which I have personally been involved with since 2018. While many global airport expansions have faced delays, we are proud to have delivered this major development ahead of schedule. This achievement reflects our commitment to operational excellence and strategic planning. This is not just about increasing capacity - it is about strengthening the entire Qatar Airways network, enhancing operational resilience, and supporting Qatar's economic growth in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030. This development allows us to meet the evolving demands of global travel while reinforcing Qatar's position as a leading aviation hub." Hamad Ali Al Khater, Chief Operating Officer at Hamad International Airport, said: "Our focus is to deliver operational excellence that supports both current demands and future growth. The opening of Concourses D and E marks a significant milestone in expanding our capacity and enhancing operational efficiency. This combined development streamlines passenger flow, optimizes resource management, and strengthens airline connectivity, ensuring smoother and more efficient passenger services." The newly inaugurated Concourses D and E feature the following enhancements: Seamless Boarding Through Smart Technology: The new concourses feature cutting-edge self-boarding systems, streamlining the boarding process for a faster, more efficient journey. Enhanced Connectivity and Global Reach: The expansion of Hamad International Airport with Concourses D and E significantly strengthens connectivity for both passengers and airlines. Elevating Passenger Journey: Qatar Duty Free will add over 9 retail and F&B outlets, increasing retail space by 2,700 sqm and reinforcing the airport's status as a top global destination. A Commitment to Sustainability: The airport remains a leader in sustainable aviation, with Concourses D and E designed to meet GSAS 4-Star Design & Build Certification and aiming for LEED Gold Certification. Hamad International Airport, the gateway to Qatar and the world. For more information, visit Hamad International Airport's website and follow the airport's latest news on Hamad International Airport's social media channels: X: @HIAQatar, Facebook: HIAQatar, Instagram: @HIAQatar, YouTube: @HIAQatar, TikTok: HIAQatar SOURCE Hamad International Airport Peiwen Zou,
