Doha, Qatar –January 27, 2025: United Development Company (UDC), a leading Qatari public shareholding company and the Master developer of The Pearl and Gewan Islands, proudly announces that its “Crystal Residence” mixed-use development on Gewan Island has recently been awarded the esteemed GSAS (Global Sustainability Assessment System) 3-Star Rating in Design and Build. This milestone highlights UDC’s steadfast commitment to sustainability and its innovative approach to design and construction.

The GSAS 3-Star Rating reflects UDC’s dedication to incorporating sustainable practices throughout the development process, including energy efficiency, water conservation, and the use of eco-friendly materials. This achievement further cements UDC’s position as a trailblazer in sustainable real estate development in Qatar, aligning with global environmental objectives.

A special event was hosted by UDC on January 23, 2025, at Gewan Island to commemorate this achievement. During the ceremony, the Gulf Organisation for Research & Development (GORD) officially presented the GSAS certification to UDC, in the presence of senior delegates from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC).

Mr. Yasser Nasser Al-Jaidah, President & CEO of UDC, expressed his pride in the accomplishment: “Achieving the GSAS 3-Star Rating underscores our commitment to responsible and forward-thinking development. Crystal Residence at Gewan Island exemplifies our vision of creating vibrant, sustainable communities that cater to modern lifestyles while meeting global sustainability aspirations.”

Handing over the GSAS certificate and plaque to UDC was Dr. Yousef Alhorr, Founding Chairman of GORD, who said, “The attainment of GSAS certification by Crystal Residence demonstrates how diverse projects of innovative design can seamlessly integrate with environmental consciousness. The project's unique features with climatized walkways and captivating illuminated installations, not only enhance the urban landscape but also prioritize the well-being of visitors and the environment. On behalf of GORD, I congratulate UDC on reaching this milestone.”


Crystal Residence represents UDC’s first design-and-build development to secure GSAS certification, setting a new benchmark in Qatar’s real estate sector. This accomplishment strengthens UDC’s leadership in sustainable development and enhances its competitive advantage by demonstrating its commitment to environmental responsibility and innovative practices.

Key features of the Crystal Residence development include:

1. Energy Efficiency: The building design achieves a 30% improvement over ASHRAE standards, demonstrating significant energy savings.
2. Thermal Insulation: Low thermal conductivity in the external walls and roof, achieved through the installation of advanced insulation materials.
3. Shading and Heat Reduction: Strategic building elevation and external overhangs reduce heat gain, contributing to improved energy efficiency.
4. Ventilation Efficiency: Low specific fan power (SFP) and low supply air specific fan power, optimizing air circulation and energy consumption.
5. Water Conservation: Low-flow fixtures, promote efficient water use.
6. Sustainable Landscaping: The use of native and adaptive plants, alongside community-supplied TSE for irrigation, reduces water consumption.
7. Underground Parking: The project features underground parking for the entire development, contributing to space optimization and environmental sustainability.
8. Local Sourcing: Over 50% of the materials used in the project were sourced locally, supporting Qatar’s national economy.

This certification reaffirms UDC’s role as a leader in the integration of sustainability practices within Qatar’s real estate sector, marking a significant achievement in its ongoing efforts to promote environmentally responsible and innovative developments.

ABOUT UDC:
United Development Company (UDC), the master developer of The Pearl and Gewan Islands, is a leading Qatari public shareholding company with a mission to identify and invest in long-term projects contributing to Qatar’s growth and providing good shareholder value. 

ABOUT GORD
The Gulf Organisation for Research & Development (GORD) is an RDI entity recognized among leading organizations in the global sustainability milieu. Headquartered in Qatar Science and Technology Park, GORD drives the transformation of societies, industries, and the built environment by influencing corporate ethos, fostering innovation, and developing capacity to enable low-carbon sustainable growth for present and future generations. The organization’s key operations include R&D, standards setting, green buildings certification, accreditation services, voluntary carbon markets, performance testing, knowledge dissemination, 3D prototyping and advisory services on sustainability and climate change for governments, non-government, public and private sector organizations in line with Qatar National Vision 2030 and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
For more information visit, www.gord.qa