Worshippers in the capital mark the start of Ramadan at a mosque designed to operate on net-zero energy, as Masdar City Mosque opens its doors for the Holy Month.
Located in Masdar City, the mosque is fully powered by solar energy and produces as much electricity as it consumes each year. It is the first net-zero energy mosque in Abu Dhabi and reflects the UAE’s focus on sustainable buildings and community spaces.
Net-zero Masdar City Mosque
“The Masdar City Mosque demonstrates that places of worship can lead by example in sustainability,” said Ahmed Baghoum, CEO Masdar City.
“Sustainability is deeply rooted in Islamic teachings, which call for balance, moderation, and stewardship of the Earth. We’re proud to welcome the community to a mosque that honors our Emirati architectural heritage while setting a new standard for environmental responsibility. This project shows that Net-Zero design is achievable today, not just in the future.”
The mosque draws inspiration from Al Bidyah Mosque, one of the country’s oldest mosques. It has achieved LEED Platinum and 4 Pearl PBRS Estidama ratings, along with Net-Zero Energy Certification from the International Living Future Institute.
A total of 1,074 square metres of solar photovoltaic panels are installed on the roof and parking shade structures, generating enough electricity to meet 100 percent of its annual energy needs.
Key features
The mosque can accommodate up to 1,300 worshippers. Its 20.2-metre minaret stands as a visible landmark, while the 42-metre-wide column-free prayer hall provides open space for congregational prayers.
A 319 cubic metre rammed earth Qibla wall, described as the first of its kind in a public building in Abu Dhabi, helps regulate indoor temperature using natural materials and traditional construction methods.
Other sustainability features include optimal building orientation, shaded arcades, natural ventilation and daylighting. The mosque also uses district cooling, LED lighting and Abu Dhabi’s first greywater recycling system in a mosque, which treats water used for ablution and reuses it for irrigation.
The opening coincides with the UAE’s Year of Family, highlighting the mosque’s role as a gathering place during Ramadan. In addition to daily prayers and Taraweeh, it is expected to host faith-based and cultural events throughout the year to support community engagement in Masdar City.
The project forms part of Masdar City’s wider portfolio of net-zero developments and aligns with the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
