Saudi-based Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) has been awarded Platinum Level Leed for Cities Certification by the US Green Building Council (USGBC) for the first phase of its masterplan.This is the first time a project in the Middle East received this accreditation in Leed for Cities and Communities. Platinum certification is the highest level within the Leed framework and recognizes Diriyah’s commitment to a smarter, more resilient, sustainable and inclusive future.

This first phase of Diriyah’s masterplan reflects a luxurious, mixed-use project with entertainment, shopping, cultural, commercial, and residential assets. With $9.6 billion projects under construction, these assets are anchored around key public squares and open spaces.

The project’s urban form encourages a cooling microclimate with narrow streets and courtyards, providing shade and enhancing favorable winds. With central aspects of this first phase planned as car-free, it promotes a sustainable and pedestrianized public realm, Mr. Inzerillo added.

USGBC’s President and CEO Mr. Peter Templeton said that “Leed has been a transformative tool for buildings, and we are now seeing the impact it can have at the city and community level, particularly in key areas of human and environmental health.”

“As the first community in the Middle East to earn Platinum certification on Leed v4.1 for Cities: Plan and Design, the first phase of Diriyah’s masterplan is leading the way to a better world and helping USGBC continue toward our goal of sustainability by prioritizing issues such as resilience and green infrastructure for all,” Mr. Templeton added.