Geography and Human Relationships

Geography and Human Relationships

Comparative Analysis of Green Building Rating Systems in the Middle East: Challenges and Strategies for Performance Improvement

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Department of Architecture, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Kharazmi university, Tehran, Iran
2 Department of Architecture, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran.
10.22034/gahr.2025.556794.2618
Abstract
The rapid growth of urban populations and the rise in energy consumption have made the building industry one of the main contributors to environmental stress and climate change. In response, the concept of green buildings and associated assessment systems such as LEED and BREEAM have emerged globally. However, in Middle Eastern countries, due to hot and arid climatic conditions, limited resources, and specific institutional structures, these systems often lack efficiency and face a persistent gap between design intent and actual performance. The main objective of this study is to conduct a comparative analysis and localization of green building assessment systems in selected Middle Eastern countries. The secondary objectives include: (1) identifying the structure and key indicators of international systems, (2) examining localized frameworks in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Lebanon, (3) comparing them in terms of adaptation to regional climate and culture, and (4) identifying institutional, technical, and operational challenges. The research employs a qualitative–analytical and comparative review method. A systematic review of scientific sources and reports was carried out using databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, and national databases (SID, IranDoc) covering 2005–2024. A two-stage screening process was applied, and the extracted data—categorized by publication year, system type, thematic focus, and other criteria—were analyzed through frequency tables. Findings indicate that international systems, when applied without redesigning to fit local conditions, demonstrate limited effectiveness. Weak supervision, insufficient post-occupancy data, lack of independent certification bodies, and absence of economic incentives are among key challenges. Conversely, regional experiences such as LGBC in Dubai and SAB in Saudi Arabia show potential for contextual adaptation. Finally, the proposed MENA–GBRS model, structured in three layers—basic, performance, and innovative indicators—and incorporating technologies such as BIM, IoT, and artificial intelligence, offers a framework for enhancing evaluation systems and fostering regional integration.
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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 01 February 2026

  • Receive Date 01 November 2025
  • Accept Date 16 November 2025