Dubai: The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) recently announced that it has started construction works on its new headquarters.
Why is it making headlines?
Once completed, it will be the tallest, largest, and smartest net Zero Energy Building (ZEB) in the world.
On the video sharing platform You Tube, DEWA posted a two-minute-and-a-half long illustrated video of how its new headquarters will look like once completed. However, no deadline for the project has been set.
Accompanying the video, DEWA posted an online statement, which said: “The new building, named Al-Sheraa (Arabic for sail), will be the tallest, largest, and smartest net Zero Energy Building (ZEB) in the world. The Al-Sheraa building will have over a million square feet, over 200,000 square feet of land.”
“It is being built in the heart of the Cultural Village in Al Jadaf. This latest achievement conforms Dubai’s global position as a role model for leading organisations in sustainability, innovation, and shaping the future.”
DEWA’s new headquarters in Al Jadaf is set to be world’s largest and smartest government building with zero carbon emissions #DEWA #DEWAnews pic.twitter.com/5QFcQCsy33
— DEWA | Official Page (@DEWA_Official) November 5, 2016
Al Sheraa’s design was inspired by the UAE’s traditional houses, where enclosed spaces overlook an open courtyard.
The courtyard will be the focal point and most prominent feature of the building. To reduce heat in the open courtyard, a sail design will be used to provide shade.
Natural light during the day will stream through specific openings in the sail, giving sufficient light without the associated heat. The courtyard features trees, planted areas, and birds within a sustainable environment.
The courtyard will also give occupants and visitors an outdoor feeling in an indoor setting.
