Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) and the Gulf Organization for Research and Development (GORD) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost the adoption of green building practices within Qatar’s free zones.
The agreement was signed by Dr. Yousef Alhorr, Founding Chairman of GORD, and Dr. Ali Al-Khalifa, Chief Executive Officer for Zones Development at QFZ. The signing ceremony, took place at the Business Innovation Park in Ras Bufontas Free Zone, was also attended by key representatives from both organizations.
This move falls in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030 and supports the nation’s climate goals. Under the agreement, GORD and QFZ will work together to develop comprehensive sustainability strategies and frameworks tailored to the specific needs of the free zones. QFZ will empower businesses operating within free zones to implement the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) for their facilities.
GSAS, developed by GORD, is the first and fastest-growing performance-based green building rating system in the MENA region. It offers a comprehensive framework for evaluating and certifying the environmental performance of buildings, fostering sustainable design, construction and operation.
To accelerate the adoption of GSAS, QFZ will consider incentivizing buildings that achieve higher GSAS ratings. GORD will support this effort by offering complimentary services in the initial stages of the certification process.
Dr. Yousef Alhorr Founding Chairman – GORD
“Free zones are vital engines of economic growth, playing a crucial role in attracting investment and driving innovation. However, true and lasting prosperity can only be achieved by embedding sustainability at the heart of these economic hubs. Our MoU with QFZ represents a shared commitment to not only supporting businesses in contributing to Qatar’s economic growth, but also empowering them to achieve that growth in a truly sustainable manner. By partnering with QFZ on this initiative, we’re confident that businesses within the free zones will have the resources and support they need to adopt sustainability best practices, minimize their carbon footprint, and contribute to a climate-resilient future for Qatar.”
Dr. Ali Al-Khalifa, Chief Executive Officer for Zones Development at QFZ, stated that, “This MoU with GORD is a significant step towards realizing our vision of becoming one of the world’s most sustainable free zones. Offering modern green infrastructure is only part of the equation. We are committed to incorporating sustainability in every aspect of our operations. By partnering with GORD and leveraging their expertise in sustainability, we are providing our businesses with the tools and support they need to achieve their own environmental goals, all while creating a truly sustainable ecosystem within our free zones.”
Additionally, GORD and QFZ will carry out workshops, training sessions, and seminars aimed at enhancing the knowledge and skills of both parties and stakeholders in green building practices and GSAS implementation.
Furthermore, the two entities will work together on research projects focused on sustainability, innovation, and environmental research, contributing to the advancement of green building technologies and solutions.
The MoU builds upon the existing collaboration between GORD and QFZ, which has seen the implementation of GSAS in various QFZ projects including the iconic Business Innovation Park building and the infrastructure project at Ras Bufontas Free Zone.
This partnership highlights both entities’ commitment to driving sustainability across diverse organizations.
