GE opens green office in Abu Dhabi

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 across two levels in Sowwah Square, which features an innovative architecture and integrates sustainable design leading to LEED Environmental Precertification, 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.”

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 of office space for every individual staff member, the Sowwah Square office will have the largest contingent of GE Energy and GE Oil and Gas teams — in line with the company’s operations in the emirate, one of the world’s largest producers of oil and 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 Precertification 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 maximizes 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.