Dubai has always been one of the most ambitious and innovative cities in the world when it comes to property development and architecture. And just like how the city rose rapidly from the desert, it is also beginning to transform into an environmentally conscious city with many upcoming green initiatives by the government and developers. Since Dubai is currently preparing for Expo 2020 of which one of the main themes is sustainability many Dubai areas are undergoing visionary makeovers to integrate the elements of sustainability into new developments as well as the behavior of residents in order to reduce the nations environmental footprint.

Al Barari

The Project Imagine walking through a haven of verdant forests or having a cup of tea next to a babbling brook, while watching deers freely roam between the trees. Living in Al Barari, this is a regular experience. Among Dubais new luxurious developments, Al Barari stands alone. Opulent is also sometimes a word too easily employed, but its perfectly fitting when used to describe an Al Barari home. Al Barari is also renowned for being one of few eco-friendly communities in the entire UAE, making it an ideal residence for nature lovers and the environmentally conscious. The philosophy of Al Barari is ecological sensitivity without compromising luxury. Al Barari implements environmental management strategies such as composting, recycling and engineering design in order to integrate sustainability into all aspects of the development and minimize detrimental impact. In total, there are more than 14 million square feet of botanical landscaping in and around the Al Barari villas, with each model built to perfection and designed to blend in with the desert oasis and the lush foliage carefully shaped to complement the beauty of the home itself. Wellness and Fitness Located within Al Barari is Body Language one of Dubais top fitness clubs. Fitted with state-of-the-art equipment, this gym also offers a juice bar, steam room, a studio for a large variety of fitness classes such as Yoga and Pilates, a temperature controlled swimming pool, and tennis court. Al Bararis resident spa and wellness centre, Heart & Soul, uses the soothing effect of nature to relax and unwind client. They offer soothing massages and facials, hair and nail treatments, and day spa packages. Project Highlights The Farm: This organic, gourmet restaurant nestled in Al Barari uses only the finest organic ingredients, most of which are locally grown. The informative and imaginative menu reflects many types of cuisines and culture, and caters to people with special dietary needs.  Greenworks: Greenworks is the largest privately owned plant nursery in the region that aims to be a one-stop shop for all landscaping and gardening needs. It is only fitting for an ecologically conscious development to have a special nursery staffed with experts and horticulturists that carefully select and nurture plants (over 500 different species) that will thrive in this part of the world. The plants available range from potted flowers and fruit trees to 700 year old olive trees. Only providing the best products and plants, Greenworks also offers garden maintenance and landscaping services to the local market as well as Al Barari residences. View homes for sale and for rent in Al Barari. 

Sustainable City

The Project This AED 1.1 billion project is set to change the standards for all green developments around the world. This environmentally friendly project spans over 5 million sq.ft. and focuses on economic, environmental, and social sustainability. The homes are designed to be energy efficient and are built using eco-friendly materials without compromising on luxury. With every building featuring rooftop solar panels, the development will generate its own electricity using renewable energy, drastically reducing utility bills. It is evident in the master plan and exterior designs of the homes that the architects drew inspiration from natural elements such us the sun, wind, and earth. The focus on natural greenery in this project isnt merely for embellishment, but for creating an environment with a cooler climate, cleaning area, and fertile land. Farming Since the development is aiming to promote sustainability in all aspects, including urban agriculture. Sustainable City will feature a 3-hectare farm with a 38,000 sq.ft. biodome for growing vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Residents can participate in the farming groups and receive a delivery box of fresh produce every week. Outdoor Lifestyle Boasting 450,000 sq.ft. of landscaped parks and play areas, an active, outdoor lifestyle is highly encouraged amongst residents. One of the main features is a 25km network made up of an equestrian trail, a cycling route, and pedestrian-only areas within the development. The projects community center offers both indoor and outdoor swimming pools along with tennis and squash courts, a wellness center and gymnasium. Horse lovers and owners will enjoy using the Equestrian Centre and its stables and training facilities. Project Highlights  Car-free zones Central organic farm, wadi, and Biodome greenhouses  26 community plazas Cycling and equestrian trails Green belt with 5 layers of trees Benefits ZERO net service and maintenance fees  Electric vehicle subsidy  Free electric buggie for residents  Landscaped garden and roof garden Solar rooftop system Built-in Green Star home appliances Find eco-friendly homes for sale in The Sustainable City.

Named the first eco-friendly mosque in the region, Khalifa Al Tajer Mosque is a very unique project. With a built-up area of 45,000 sq.ft. and capacity of 3,500 people, this place of worship was built using materials such as double glazed windows and thermal insulating materials in order to maintain the temperature and reduce the need for AC. Not only is the mosque powered up solar PV panels, the street lights outside the building, the battery storage system, and the water heaters. The interior also features energy-efficient lighting. Opened by Dubais Awqaf and Minors Affairs Foundation (AMAF), the mosque is said to be in line with the UAEs future sustainable vision as well as the US Green Building Council Standards and Specifications.