A new environmentally friendly mosque has opened in Abu Dhabi, showcasing a strong commitment to sustainability and community values. Masdar City, known as the UAE’s hub for sustainability and innovation, unveiled its first mosque named Estidama Mosque.
This 500-square-meter domed structure, located in Masdar Park, is designed to be exceptionally energy-efficient, using over 50% less energy compared to traditional mosque buildings.
One notable feature of Estidama Mosque is the use of solar photovoltaic panels installed on nearby car parking shades. These panels contribute to generating a significant portion of the mosque’s energy needs, harnessing the power of the sun for a more sustainable power source. This initiative aligns with the broader goals of Masdar City to promote green energy solutions.
The mosque is designed to be water-efficient, conserving about 48% of water. The incorporation of a water treatment unit allows for the reuse of greywater, which is water that has been used but can be recycled, for the irrigation of plants in the surrounding garden. This dual-purpose use of water resources reflects a mindful approach to water conservation.
The mosque is on track to receive the prestigious LEED Platinum certification, the highest international standard for green buildings, awarded by the US Green Buildings Council. It is also designed to meet the Estidama 3-Pearl rating, a local certification system in the UAE that focuses on the country’s unique environmental conditions and emphasizes water conservation.
Estidama Mosque is more than just a place of worship; it serves as a symbol of Masdar City’s dedication to community, faith, and responsible stewardship of the environment. With a capacity to accommodate 335 worshippers for each of the five daily prayers, the mosque aims to provide a space that is not only environmentally conscious but also spiritually profound.
The mosque’s design, a collaborative effort between Masdar City and X-Architects, incorporates passive design techniques. These architectural strategies work harmoniously with the local environment to minimize the need for energy-intensive cooling. Skylights, traditional Arabic screens, a low surface-area-to-volume ratio, an airtight building envelope, high-performance insulation, and shaded pathways contribute to the overall energy efficiency of the mosque.
Masdar City’s leadership, including Mohamed Al Breiki, the executive director of sustainable development, and Ahmed Baghoum, the CEO, participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony, underlining the significance of the mosque in promoting sustainable practices.
The city has plans for a second mosque, a larger net-zero energy building accommodating 1,300 worshippers, further cementing its commitment to environmentally conscious infrastructure. This initiative aligns with the broader trend of several net-zero energy projects currently under construction in Masdar City.
