Construction UAE’s Masdar City breaks ground on new net-zero energy project By Pramod Kumar February 5, 2023, 6:09 AM Masdar City Company executives break ground on the The Link project Abu Dhabi’s Masdar City has started construction on “The Link,” a 30,000 square metre sustainable community that includes the region’s first net-zero energy shared living and working facility. The project will include four low-carbon buildings with event spaces, retail options, recreational facilities, and outdoor plazas. It is expected to create over 2,000 jobs in the UAE. Local contractor Dutco Construction was appointed the contractor for the project, the UAE state-owned WAM news agency reported. The Link is part of Masdar City’s plan for sustainable urban development and aims to connect shared working and living spaces with other community amenities. Ahmed Baghoum, acting CEO of Masdar City, said: “The Link will model a new kind of sustainable community by connecting shared working and living space with other elements of a thriving neighbourhood, including places to shop, play, and relax, and local transportation.” He added that the project is a key component of Masdar City’s “green print” for sustainable urban development. The Link is a sustainable development project that will meet several high-level sustainability standards, such as Leed Platinum, Well Gold, 4 Pearl PBRS Estidama, and Leed SmartPark Silver. The project is expected to significantly reduce energy use, powered by renewable energy sources. The Link will connect all areas of Masdar City through transportation networks through the transition route between the upcoming light-rail transit and group rapid transit networks and offer bicycle tracks, bus connectivity, electric charging ports and car-sharing facilities.