The UAE is among the leading nations in adopting global standards for ‘healthy buildings’. Overall, the Middle East is the region with the highest number of WELL-certified buildings.
The International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) made the announcement recently. The institute is the global authority for driving market transformation toward healthy buildings, organizations and communities. It primarily certifies spaces that advance health and well-being.
Across the region, IWBI founder Paul Scialla said companies and public sector organizations are aspiring to prioritize the health, safety and well-being of their people.
“It demonstrates outstanding leadership, while proving that investments in ‘healthy building’ strategies can spark enhanced performance and increased financial returns,” he said.
Healthy buildings’ in the UAE
Topping the list of ‘healthy structures’ is the UAE Prime Minister’s Office. Its Dubai office has the platinum-level certification for health and safety, according to the IWBI. It is the first WELL-certified government ministry office in the world.
Meanwhile, Dubai Police buildings placed highly on the list as well. All of its five buildings, including its headquarters, are certified. Moreover, all its jails received the health and safety rating.
“Ever since the WELL standard was adopted in the Middle East, we have seen an incredible increase in demand year-over-year for WELL’s evidence-based strategies that support the physical and mental health of organizations,” he added.
Read: Promoting health and wellness in the workplace
Committed to health and safety
Many other UAE public and private sector organizations have been WELL-certified.
Among them is Expo City Dubai, an IWBI member which will host COP28 later this year. Expo City Dubai has 23 buildings certified by the institute.
Similarly, the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) is also certified. Others include the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), which has achieved the WELL health and safety rating for its eight buildings. Nakheel likewise has 10 offices certified.
Malls and communities
The Nakheel Community Management was also awarded the WELL health and safety rating for 365 buildings last year.
Meanwhile, Majid Al Futtaim (MAF) achieved the same certification for 11 offices in 2022. Its 29 malls are also registered.
Similarly, Dubai’s prime retail destinations like JBR and City Walk have achieved the ‘healthy buildings’ rating.
Global property developer Emaar also achieved the WELL health and safety rating for 218 buildings across Dubai.
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