Masdar City builds world's first net-zero energy mosque in Abu Dhabi
- The mosque in Abu Dhabi is designed to operate with no carbon emissions and generate its energy needs through solar panels.
- It incorporates traditional Islamic design elements while employing modern sustainable construction techniques.
- The project serves as a potential model for future mosques and community buildings, emphasizing sustainability.
In Abu Dhabi, a groundbreaking project is underway with the construction of a mosque designed to operate at net-zero energy consumption. This initiative was commissioned by Masdar City, an urban development focused on sustainability located approximately 30 kilometers from downtown Abu Dhabi. The mosque aims to achieve its energy needs entirely on-site through the use of solar panels, while also embracing the principles of passive cooling and circular design. The completion of this mosque is anticipated in October 2025. The design of the mosque reflects a blend of traditional Islamic architecture with modern environmental technology. The structure will consist of a 60-meter-wide and seven-meter-tall qibla wall constructed from local soil, inspired by the traditional rammed-earth construction seen in historic mosques like Al Bidyah Mosque. This innovative approach is intended to withstand the intense solar gain experienced by the western facade of the mosque. The project highlights the designers' efforts to adhere to the religious requirements of the qibla wall while optimizing other aspects of the building's energy efficiency. To further enhance sustainability, the mosque will accommodate up to 1,300 worshippers and incorporate smart technologies to monitor environmental conditions. These technologies include sensors that automatically adjust air conditioning and ventilation based on the number of people present, ensuring energy is used only when necessary. This approach not only minimizes energy consumption but also sets a precedent for future mosque designs, positioning them as models for sustainability within the community. The mosque is part of a larger movement in the region to rethink sacred spaces in light of environmental challenges. Similar to the Estidama Mosque, which promotes sustainable architecture and energy efficiency, this new mosque reflects a wider shift toward integrating advanced technology and environmental responsibility into community spaces. As culture and technology evolve, the hope is that such projects will inspire more innovative building designs focused on preserving resources and promoting ecological balance in sacred architecture.