WiredScore research shows Saudis prioritize strong internet (64%), cybersecurity (48%), and productivity/comfort optimization (46%) in a smart building.
The headquarters of the King Abdullah Financial District Development & Management Company (KAFD DMC) is the first building in Saudi Arabia to achieve SmartScore certification, receiving the highest level of Platinum. SmartScore certification, from the certification body WiredScore, identifies best-in-class smart buildings that deliver an exceptional user experience, drive cost efficiency, meet high sustainability standards and are fully future-ready. KAFD DMC headquarters is WiredScore’s first certified building in the country as it enters the growing Saudi market, a move that underscores the company’s commitment to creating a world-class intelligent and liveable district.
A landmark project that symbolizes the Kingdom’s economic transformation, KAFD is home to 1.6 million square meters of state-of-the-art office space, exclusive retail and lifestyle venues and bespoke luxury residences, all set in the heart of Riyadh. Owned and managed by KAFD DMC, KAFD is a cornerstone initiative of Vision 2030.
“We are honored to partner with WiredScore as it launches its first Saudi offering at KAFD,” said Gautam Sashittal, Chief Executive Officer of KAFD DMC. “As urban centers around the world continue to grow exponentially, smart cities are no longer an option but an imperative. We, at KAFD, are delighted to have completed this rigorous certification process, helping to realize Vision 2030 by setting the standard for smart buildings in the Kingdom.”
John Hilliard, Middle East Lead at WiredScore, commented: “Throughout our engagement, KAFD DMC has demonstrated a crystal-clear commitment to the integration of bleeding-edge technology into the heart of its commercial real estate offering. We are incredibly pleased to be working with the KAFD DMC team as we expand our offering into the Kingdom, and we will work hand-in-glove with them to ensure our certifications support their growth journey towards a smarter future.”
WiredScore has certified over 800 million square feet of prime real estate, impacting more than eight million people across 36 countries. In addition to certifying individual buildings and districts, the company has partnered with authorities in London, New York, Paris, Berlin and other global cities to set standards for digital connectivity in global commercial centers. Recent research shows that technologically enabled buildings achieve up to 15% higher rental values in commercial real estate, alongside energy savings of up to 25 percent
