Hatta’s Al Rayyan Mosque sets third world record with new Leed certification
The Al Rayyan Mosque in Hatta has become the first place of worship in the world to be awarded the prestigious Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (Leed) Zero Carbon Certification from the US Green Building Council.
The mosque, built for the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) and set to open in 2021, is a global example of sustainable construction. It has been certified by eliminating 175 percent of its annual carbon emissions, allowing it to actively contribute to environmental restoration.
Milestone is the mosque’s third national document on energy leadership and environmental design.
In 2021, it became the first mosque in the world to receive Platinum LEED certification under LEED V4, scoring impressive points for its sustainable design. After three years, in 2024, it received the Leed Zener Energy certificate, producing 150 percent of its panels it needs by using the most efficient Photovoltaic (PV) panels in the grid. Cloud-based PV panels with a total capacity of 158KWP.
Certificate 2025 stands as a pioneering example of how places of worship can lead to environmental restoration and climate change.
Built to the highest international standards, the mosques ensure that there is no swelling of air, water or heat. Its high thermal insulation glass and efficient facade reduce air demand and carbon emissions, while extensive daylighting reduces overall energy consumption.
The roof and non-roofing materials are selected based on their Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) to reduce the heat effect on the island. All water heaters are powerful.
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dewa, commented: “Under the wise demands of the UAE leaders, we are working to translate a truly green future, through development, urban development and the UAE’s journey towards Net zero.
“The Al Rayyan Mosque contributes to creating a positive and sustainable impact on the environment, making it a model of sustainable, environmentally friendly architecture around the world.
“Our efforts are in line with the Dubai Erban Master Plan and comprehensive and comprehensive development plan for Hatta. We look forward to fulfilling all our economic, social and environmental commitments.
“Dewa is among the first organizations in Dubai to embrace the concept of green buildings. Today, we have 10 green properties on the sustainable books and are powered by clean and renewable energy.”
Spanning 1,050 square meters and seating more than 600 worshippers, the mosque is an example of environmental sustainability. It has a 25-meter minaret, car and bicycle parking, accessible areas for people with disabilities, a green charging station, solar panels and a water treatment unit for irrigation and purification.
Dewa also used international best practice to ensure a healthy indoor environment by installing advanced ventilation systems and using recycled building materials.
