The Link, a 30,000-square-meter sustainable community in Masdar City, broke ground. The project will be a sustainable community with the region's first net-zero, energy-sharing live and work facility. It will feature four low-carbon buildings with event spaces as well as retail options, recreational facilities and an outdoor plaza. Masdar's statement said Dutco had been contracted as the main contractor, while EDGE designed The Link.

As a major sustainability project in the region, The Link will meet several advanced sustainability standards such as Leed Platinum, WELL Gold, 4Pearl PBRS Estidama and LEED SmartPark Silver. Backed by renewable energy, the project is expected to significantly reduce energy use.

Acting CEO Ahmed Baghoum commented that it will shape a new kind of sustainable community by connecting shared working and living spaces with other elements of a thriving community. It is an important part of Masdar City's green print for sustainable urban development and a great way to mark the Year of Sustainability 2023 as the UAE prepares to host COP28.

In early November 2022, Masdar, Infinity Power and Hassan Allam Utilities signed a memorandum of understanding to develop a 10GW wind farm in Egypt, and in early January 2023, Sheikh Mohamedbin Zayed Al Nahyan declared 2023 as the year of sustainable development.

The development will offer residential units of various sizes, as well as dedicated office and commercial spaces. Amenities for residents will include courtyards with play areas, wellness areas and more. The commercial space will offer retail options on the ground level. TheLink is part of Masdar City's sustainable urban development plan to connect shared working and living spaces with other community amenities.

Zayed Baker, executive director of Dutco, commented, "We are honored to be able to bring this historic development to life. Dutco were selected largely because of their high domestic value certification score, which represents the value they will add to the UAE economy.

TheLink will connect all areas of Masdar City through an advanced transportation network. It will create a transition route between the upcoming light rail transit and the Group Rapid Transit network, and provide cycle lanes, bus links, charging ports, car-sharing facilities and parking for 1,255 cars, the statement concluded.Editor/XingWentao