KSA is also recognized for its significant contribution to the reduction of CO2 and greenhouse gas emissions, ranking 5th globally and securing the top position in the Middle East over the last decade, as detailed in recent industry analyses.
In contrast, the United Arab Emirates experienced an increase of over 18% in emissions from its manufacturing and construction sectors during the same timeframe, positioning it seventh worldwide for the most considerable increase in emissions, as reported by the UAE-based construction services firm, Stonehaven.
Both the UAE and Saudi Arabia have achieved commendable success in the promotion of green building practices, ranking among the top ten globally for the number of LEED-certified projects. Specifically, Saudi Arabia is ranked fifth with 1,190 certified projects, and the UAE is ranked ninth with 641 projects, marking them as the only Middle Eastern countries to feature in the top ten.
The Stonehaven report highlights the rapid progress of sustainable construction practices in the Middle East, with the UAE and Saudi Arabia pioneering the implementation of numerous LEED-certified projects. The report acknowledges the establishment of the Emirates Green Building Council and the ambitious carbon emission reduction targets set by the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment as significant initiatives.