Sebastien Miller, Public Realm Design Manager at Masdar City, discusses how the Estidama Mosque—the first LEED Platinum mosque in Abu Dhabi—sets a new benchmark for culturally grounded, sustainable architecture
What inspired the integration of LEED Platinum certification into the mosque’s design?
The UAE has set ambitious goals related to sustainability, renewable energy, and development through the “Green Agenda 2030”. These provide clear direction and guidance for the industry. At Masdar City, we are proud to contribute through our commitment to sustainable real estate development.
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a globally recognised sustainability certification, alongside Abu Dhabi’s Estidama Pearl Rating System. Achieving LEED certification is a significant milestone, and earning Platinum status signifies the highest calibre of sustainable design and construction
Masdar City is home to one of the largest clusters of LEED certified buildings in the world, and this success continues to fuel our ambitions. As industry leaders, we strive to provide commercially viable solutions to the pressing challenges facing cities today.
How do traditional Arabic design elements such as screens and skylights contribute to the mosque’s energy efficiency?
At Masdar City, each project takes a unique approach to sustainability. We delve deeper to understand not only the climatic conditions but also the cultural context and building usage.
The Estidama Mosque incorporates traditional mashrabiya-style screens, a design element prevalent across the UAE. These screens provide shade, privacy, and a visual connection to heritage through craftsmanship.
Other vernacular features include earthen materials for temperature regulation, vaulted ceilings, and dome structures, all of which contribute to natural cooling and impressive spatial volumes. Skylights and courtyard openings facilitate passive ventilation, allowing hot air to escape and cooler breezes to circulate—enhancing comfort and usability.
This passive design approach aligns with nature rather than working against it. Across the region, there is a resurgence of interest in these time-tested, sustainable design strategies, which add authenticity and depth to modern architecture.
Can you explain how the greywater treatment system works and its impact on the mosque’s sustainability?
The Estidama Mosque does not incorporate a greywater treatment system, as the associated cost and carbon impact of tanks and pumps were not justifiable for the limited amount of greywater generated.
However, the concept was explored, and valuable lessons from this process are now being applied to our upcoming Net-Zero Mosque. We are continuously evolving. Our key takeaway is that sustainable design must be carefully considered to deliver real environmental benefits. Otherwise, innovation risks becoming performative. Fortunately, technology is advancing, and a younger, more informed generation is driving the industry towards meaningful change.
What challenges were encountered when incorporating advanced sustainable features into a religious structure?
Certain design parameters must be respected, such as orientation towards the qibla (direction of prayer), separation of spaces, and a generally minimalist aesthetic to maintain focus and reflection. Within these guidelines, however, there is scope for innovation. Religious buildings often allow for experimentation in form and function.
What makes mosques particularly interesting is the cultural diversity across the Islamic world—from Eastern Europe to Asia—which allows for a wide array of architectural expressions. Each is valid within its context, and this diversity enables a rich architectural dialogue.
How did collaboration with X-Architects help realise the mosque’s vision, particularly in terms of sustainability?
X-Architects focused on natural light and how it enhances the experience of the space. With five daily calls to prayer, each visit to the mosque offers a different interaction with light as it filters through strategically placed skylights.
This sensitivity to natural processes significantly shapes the user experience. The practice successfully captured the cultural context of the design. Estidama Mosque is a proud example of home-grown talent—an Emirati design studio delivering a structure that speaks directly to the environmental and cultural conditions of the region.
What role does Estidama certification play in shaping the design and construction process?
The value of certification lies in uniting various disciplines towards a common goal: optimal environmental performance. It also enables independent auditing and ensures accountability.
Now in its 15th year, the Estidama rating system has had a measurable impact on the construction industry—promoting sustainable material use, reducing waste, and conserving water and energy.
One of Estidama’s distinguishing features is its cultural focus. This is especially relevant today, as we navigate a fast-paced and increasingly globalised world.
How do the mosque’s sustainable features enhance the user experience without compromising its atmosphere?
The Estidama Mosque has achieved notable sustainability metrics: 61% water savings, 53% energy reduction, and a 40% decrease in cooling demand compared to similar typologies.
Rather than detract from the experience, these features enhance it. The grand domed ceiling improves thermal comfort at full capacity, while the intricate fractal wall patterns— executed through prefabricated GRC—allowed for efficient construction with minimal waste and reduced embodied carbon.
We at Masdar City are proud of this achievement. The mosque has received multiple awards, and we welcome visitors to experience its unique ambiance and sustainable ethos firsthand.
