Qatar has made significant strides in sustainable development, with more than 3.1 billion square feet of built-up area receiving Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) certification, a leading official said. This achievement marks a substantial milestone in the country’s efforts to promote environmentally responsible construction and operations.

Dr. Yousef Alhorr, founding chairman of the Gulf Organisation for Research & Development (GORD), which developed GSAS, highlighted the rapid adoption of the rating system across Qatar. He attributed much of the progress to leadership from public sector entities including the Public Works Authority of Qatar (Ashghal) and Qatar Museums.

Since its introduction, nearly 2,700 projects within Qatar have earned GSAS recognition. These projects span a wide range of sectors and include key infrastructure such as the FIFA World Cup 2022 stadiums, the Internal Security Force City (ISF City), and the Qatar Rail network.

GSAS is the first regional green building and infrastructure rating system designed specifically for the Middle East and North Africa. It evaluates environmental impact with the goal of encouraging sustainable design, construction, and operational practices.

In 2025, about 200 projects attained GSAS certification. More than 150 of these were awarded for incorporating sustainable principles during the design and construction phases, while the remainder were recognized for sustainable site development and environmentally conscious management after project completion.

Dr. Alhorr emphasized the diversity of projects that have earned GSAS endorsement. Beyond large infrastructure initiatives, certified developments include healthcare facilities, education buildings, parks, public spaces, residential communities, and mixed-use commercial complexes. Government-affiliated organizations have been central in driving adoption, with Ashghal contributing the largest number of certified projects.

Qatar Foundation has an extensive portfolio undergoing environmental verification, including numerous projects that achieved GSAS Operations Platinum certification. In the healthcare sector, the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) has been instrumental in advancing sustainability standards across its facilities.

Meanwhile, private and semi-government developments have also made notable progress. Lusail City’s mixed-use development and Gewan Island’s residential projects in The Pearl-Qatar exemplify efforts to combine luxury design with green building principles.

The expansion of GSAS certification across Qatar underscores the country’s commitment to sustainable urban development and sets a benchmark for environmentally conscious construction in the region.