Mostadam Certification is a green building rating system developed by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing. Aligned with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, Mostadam serves as a comprehensive sustainability framework tailored to the country’s cultural, environmental, and economic context. It guides developers and property owners in adopting sustainable construction practices, minimizing environmental impact, and enhancing occupant well-being.
Understanding Mostadam Certification
Derived from the Arabic word for “sustainable,” Mostadam integrates global best practices while addressing Saudi Arabia’s unique sustainability needs. It focuses on energy efficiency, water management, waste reduction, and improving indoor environmental quality.
By supporting the national goals of creating a Vibrant Society, a Thriving Economy, and an Ambitious Nation, Mostadam fosters sustainable urban development and enhances the quality of life for Saudi citizens.
Objectives of Mostadam Certification
Mostadam promotes sustainability across all stages of a building’s lifecycle, emphasizing:
Reducing Environmental Impact: Minimizing the ecological footprint throughout construction and operation.
Energy Efficiency: Implementing energy-efficient systems and renewable energy solutions.
Water Conservation: Enhancing water management through innovative solutions.
Health and Comfort: Improving indoor air quality, daylight access, and noise control.
Waste Management: Encouraging responsible waste handling and sustainable material use.
Scope of Mostadam Certification
Mostadam applies to various building types and is categorized into:
Design + Construction (D+C): Focuses on sustainability from the initial design phase to project completion.
Operation + Existing (O+E): Aims to improve sustainability in existing buildings, including minor renovations.
Mostadam Credit Categories and Rating Levels
Projects are assessed based on nine sustainability categories:
Site Sustainability: Responsible land use, flood management, and environmental protection.
Transportation & Connectivity: Encouraging sustainable transport and EV infrastructure.
Region & Culture: Integrating local heritage and economic priorities.
Energy: Reducing consumption through efficiency measures and renewable energy.
Water: Implementing metering and alternative water strategies.
Health & Comfort: Enhancing air quality, daylight, and thermal comfort.
Materials & Waste: Promoting sustainable materials and waste reduction.
Education & Innovation: Recognizing innovative sustainability solutions and awareness programs.
Policies, Management & Maintenance: Ensuring long-term sustainability through monitoring and maintenance.
Mostadam Certification Levels
Projects accumulate points across these categories to achieve one of five certification levels:
Green: 20–39 points
Bronze: 40–59 points
Silver: 60–69 points
Gold: 70–79 points
Diamond: 80+ points
Keystone Credits in Mostadam
Mostadam requires all certified projects to meet essential Keystone Credits, which include:
Flood and rainwater management
Energy performance standards
Water efficiency
Indoor air quality
Meeting these is mandatory for achieving certification at any level.
Mostadam Certification Process
The certification process involves multiple submissions:
Submission 1: After the design phase, showcasing compliance with Mostadam’s sustainability requirements.
Submission 2: After construction, verifying implementation of sustainability measures.
Submission 3: For operational buildings with at least 75% occupancy, assessing ongoing sustainability.
Key Roles in the Mostadam Process
Mostadam Accredited Professional (AP): Guides the project team through the certification process.
Mostadam Assessor: Reviews submissions and verifies compliance through audits.
Project Team: Implements sustainability measures and prepares documentation.
Benefits of Mostadam Certification
Environmental Impact Reduction: Encourages resource efficiency and carbon footprint minimization.
Enhanced Economic Value: Leads to lower operating costs and increased property value.
Improved Occupant Well-being: Provides healthier, more comfortable indoor environments.
Alignment with Vision 2030: Supports Saudi Arabia’s sustainability and economic diversification goals.
Resilience: Future-proofs buildings against climate change and regulatory shifts.
Conclusion: Advancing Sustainability with Mostadam
Mostadam Certification plays a crucial role in Saudi Arabia’s sustainable urban development. By adhering to its framework, developers can reduce environmental impact while enhancing occupant comfort and economic benefits.
As a key component of Vision 2030, Mostadam drives a greener, more resilient built environment, ensuring long-term sustainability for the Kingdom’s future.