Understanding LEED
A comprehensive guide to the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design rating system and its impact on the built environment.
What is LEED?
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the world's most widely used green building rating system. It provides a framework for healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green buildings. LEED certification is a globally recognized symbol of sustainability achievement and leadership.
It works for all buildings—from homes to corporate headquarters—at all phases of development. Projects pursuing LEED certification earn points for various green building strategies across several categories.
Core Impact Categories
LEED assesses buildings based on their performance in these key areas, ensuring a holistic approach to sustainability.
Location & Transportation
Encourages building on previously developed land and near public transit to reduce vehicle emissions and prevent urban sprawl.
Sustainable Sites
Focuses on minimizing the impact on ecosystems, reducing light pollution, and managing rainwater runoff.
Water Efficiency
Promotes smarter use of water, inside and out, to reduce potable water consumption through efficient fixtures and landscaping.
Energy & Atmosphere
The largest category. Rewards energy-efficient design, renewable energy generation, and elimination of ozone-depleting chemicals.
Materials & Resources
Encourages using sustainable building materials, reducing waste, and considering the full life-cycle impact of materials.
Indoor Quality
Prioritizes clean indoor air, access to natural daylight, and views to improve occupant health and productivity.
Certification Levels
Projects earn points across the categories above. The total score determines the level of LEED certification achieved.
Certified
40-49 Points
Silver
50-59 Points
Gold
60-79 Points
Platinum
80+ Points
Green Landmarks of Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is home to some of the world's most advanced sustainable buildings.
KAUST
Thuwal, KSA
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology was the Kingdom's first LEED Platinum campus, setting a global benchmark for sustainable research facilities.
KAFD
Riyadh, KSA
King Abdullah Financial District is the world's largest LEED Platinum certified neighborhood project, integrating smart systems across 1.6 million sqm.
KAPSARC
Riyadh, KSA
Designed by Zaha Hadid, the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center is a futuristic modular structure maximizing solar and wind energy.
How to Get Certified
A simplified roadmap for project teams.
Register
Register the project with GBCI.
Select Credits
Identify target points and goals.
Submit
Submit documentation for review.
Certify
Receive final rating and plaque.
Why LEED Matters in Vision 2030
Global Competitiveness
Attracting international business and investment by meeting global sustainability standards.
Human Health
Creating healthier environments that improve the well-being and productivity of Saudi citizens.
Environmental Protection
Reducing carbon emissions and conserving water resources in line with the Saudi Green Initiative.