Expo City Dubai has achieved a historic milestone, securing two globally recognised sustainability pre-certifications.
The city’s master plan has been pre-certified Platinum in the LEED Cities and Communities standard and has also attained pre-certification for the WELL Community standard.
This achievement makes Expo City Dubai the first urban centre in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to secure both distinctions.
Environmental and social sustainability
The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Cities and Communities certification, awarded at the Platinum level, is the highest possible rating in this internationally recognised framework. It focuses on economic development, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship. As the most widely used ‘green’ rating system globally, LEED evaluates urban environments based on sustainability and efficiency.
Expo City Dubai has also secured pre-certification for the WELL Community standard, which prioritises health and well-being in the built environment. Administered by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), this standard evaluates communities based on air and water quality, nourishment, lighting, movement, and overall liveability. The city is now targeting a WELL Gold certification as part of its long-term sustainability goals.
The announcement was made at the Cities in Action Forum, held from 6-7 February, where the Expo City Dubai team highlighted its vision for a sustainable, innovation-driven urban landscape. The dual pre-certifications reinforce the city’s commitment to setting new benchmarks in urban development, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable living and working environment for residents, tenants, and visitors.
Ahmed Al Khatib, Chief Development and Delivery Officer at Expo City Dubai, underscored the significance of this achievement. He stated, “Expo City’s master plan is rooted in the principles of sustainable development, and we are proud to have this commitment globally recognised as we push forward on the master plan’s delivery. Our pre-certification in LEED and WELL community standards shows we are on track to meet our ambitious targets and reinforces our city’s robust position as a new urban centre at the heart of Dubai’s growth corridor.”
A thriving hub for businesses and residents
Located within Dubai South, Expo City Dubai has rapidly become a focal point of the city’s economic and real estate growth. Its master plan includes five interconnected districts designed in a highly efficient grid system, enhancing accessibility and movement. The city’s prime location near Al Maktoum International Airport, Jebel Ali Port, and Dubai Exhibition Centre makes it an attractive destination for businesses, investors, and developers.
The demand for real estate within Expo City Dubai has surged, with residential developments, commercial leasing, and land plots generating strong interest from investors. The city is set to become a central hub in Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan, ultimately accommodating approximately 35,000 residents and 40,000 professionals.
Groundbreaking master plan
Expo City Dubai’s master plan is structured around comprehensive sustainability goals, covering multiple aspects of environmental responsibility and urban efficiency. Key targets include:
- Enhancing biodiversity through green and blue spaces, including parks, urban water features, and pedestrian-friendly streets.
- Reducing energy consumption while increasing the use of clean energy solutions.
- Implementing sustainable water management strategies to reduce consumption and maximise alternative water sources.
- Promoting sustainable transport options, including public transit, cycling, and walking infrastructure.
- Creating economic opportunities and fostering an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship.
Expo City Dubai already houses 123 LEED-certified buildings, including Dubai Exhibition Centre and Expo Village. As part of its long-term development strategy, the city has established a minimum requirement of LEED Gold certification for all future buildings.
A model for future cities
The LEED Cities and Communities framework, managed by the US Green Building Council, assesses various factors contributing to urban sustainability, such as energy efficiency, waste management, and transportation. Expo City Dubai’s pre-certification is based on its master plan’s innovative strategies and data-driven sustainability measures.
The WELL Community standard, meanwhile, evaluates projects based on 10 key areas: air, water, nourishment, light, movement, thermal comfort, sound, materials, mind, and community. By meeting these criteria, Expo City Dubai demonstrates its dedication to fostering an environment that prioritises health and well-being.
As Expo City Dubai continues its phased development, the city is poised to play a critical role in supporting Dubai’s economic and sustainability goals under the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). Its forward-thinking urban framework and commitment to international best practices make it a model for future cities in the region and beyond.
With its blend of sustainability, connectivity, and innovation, Expo City Dubai stands as a beacon of urban excellence, redefining the future of city living in the MENA region.