SUSTAINABLE BUILDING STRATEGIES AND THEIR IMPLEMENTATION CHALLENGES IN URBAN GREEN BUILDINGS OF THE UAE: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

The construction industry in the UAE plays a crucial role in socio-economic growth while contributing significantly to environmental challenges, producing around 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions and a considerable amount of national waste. In response to international climate agreements and the UAE's Net Zero 2050 initiative, this study delivers a detailed literature review on the strategies, challenges, and performance related to green buildings in the region, synthesizing insights from 31 peer-reviewed and practical studies. It notes a transition from optional international standards like LEED to obligatory local codes such as Estidama and Al Sa’fat. Key findings underscore the effectiveness of passive design techniques in enhancing thermal efficiency in hyper-arid conditions; however, a "performance gap" persists, where real energy usage often diverges from predicted values due to behavioral influences and dependency on Western thermal comfort models. Implementation hurdles are categorized into a seven-factor model, highlighting that high initial investment costs and a lack of skilled green professionals are major obstacles. The review also anticipates future directions in Industry 4.0, focusing on technologies like Digital Twins, Machine Learning for enhancing predictive capabilities, and sustainable practices such as using recycled materials. Ultimately, strategies for policymakers and stakeholders to reconcile sustainability initiatives with actual building outcomes are recommended.