- Spread over two levels in Al Maryah Island, new office uses recycled, renewable and sustainable materials
- Complements GE's partnership in Abu Dhabi's sustainable development initiatives and commitment to Vision 2030
Abu Dhabi, UAE; May 2, 2012: GE (NYSE: GE) is redefining the concept of sustainable design with its new green and contemporary office in Sowwah Square, the commercial business district development and a central component of Mubadala Real Estate & Hospitality's flagship development, Al Maryah Island. The new GE office uses recycled, renewable and sustainable materials in its design, apart from the company's ecomagination-certified products.
The new GE office is spread over 3,800 sq m (40,899 sq ft) across two levels in Sowwah Square, which features an innovative architecture and integrates sustainable design leading to LEED Environmental Pre-certification, a rating that reflects the environment-friendliness of the development. The office has been designed by AK Design, a multi-disciplinary architectural and interior design firm, with a focus on openness and transparency.
Nabil Habayeb, GE's President & Chief Executive Officer for the Middle East, North Africa & Turkey, said: "With our new office in Abu Dhabi, we are putting into practice our commitment to sustainable development and partnering in the Emirate's vision to create sustainable cities of the future. We have a long history of partnership with Abu Dhabi, and have also joined hands with Mubadala Development Company to promote collaborations in commercial finance, clean energy research and development, aviation, and corporate learning. The new office is a clear testament to our long-term growth outlook for Abu Dhabi and our commitment to support the Emirate's Economic Vision 2030 with a focus on promoting a sustainable urban development framework."
The new GE office combines four office sites of the company in Abu Dhabi, with a total employee strength of nearly 300. Offering a spacious 13 sq m (139 sq ft) of office space for every individual staff member, the Sowwah Square office will have the largest contingent of GE Energy and GE Oil & Gas teams -- in line with the company's operations in the Emirate, one of the world's largest producers of oil & gas. Nearly 78 percent of the office follows an open plan, aimed at further enhancing employee welfare.
The GE office further builds on the LEED Environmental Pre-certification of Sowwah Square by reflecting the same high standards in sustainability in its interiors. With a focus on enhancing energy efficiency, the office is aesthetically designed to roll out one of the best work environments for employees. The design also takes into consideration enhanced light penetration and maximises external views of Al Maryah Island, a picturesque location, easily accessible from the heart of the city through an advanced network of roads and bridges.
All the products used in the design have been chosen for their recycled content, sustainability and minimal impact on climate change. Daylight control sensors as well as motion sensors have been deployed to maximize energy use efficiency. All appliances and lighting are from GE's own portfolio, and have been selected for their environmental friendliness.
GE has a history of over 80 years of presence in the region, and has its regional headquarters in Dubai. In addition to long-term partnerships in the energy and oil & gas sector, GE partners with Abu Dhabi in supporting a significant share of its roadway lighting, as well as in the healthcare, aviation and commercial finance sectors. GE has over 1,000 employees in the UAE across 8 facilities and generating revenues of approximately $1.3 billion in 2011.
Kelly Home
ASDA’A Burson-Marsteller
[email protected]
+971 4 4507 600
Nivine William
ASDA’A Burson-Marsteller
[email protected]
+971 4 4507 600
Caroline Wehbeh
GE Communications Leader, North Africa
[email protected]
+971 4 429 6318