The Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre, the crown jewel of the planned Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort development, was recently recognised as the National Winner, UAE of the ‘Social Project of the Year Award’ by the prestigious MEED Quality Awards for Projects 2013, in association with Ernst & Young.

Embedded within the UAE World Desert, the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre will feature educational exhibits that will celebrate the wildlife and traditions of the desert and the conservation-related vision of the late H.H. Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Aligned with its commitment to sustainability, the Centre is in the process of applying for LEED Platinum certification, an international rating that assesses the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings. The Centre has also received the five pearl rating of the Estidama Pearl Rating System (PRS) in the design phase, making it the first UAE government development to attain this high of a rating for sustainability.

Commenting on the award, Mr. Ghanim Al Hajeri, Director General of Al Ain Zoo said:

“The Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre will not only showcase the history of the UAE, where people have co-existed naturally with wildlife for decades, but it will also pay tribute to the legacy of the late H.H. Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. We are honoured to receive the MEED ‘Social Project of the Year Award’, UAE, for the Centre established in the name of the father of our nation, and we are committed to continuing to build on his vision. Once complete, the Centre will allow visitors to learn more about the conservation practices needed to protect desert wildlife and their habitats, helping to chart a sustainable future for desert living.”

The crown jewel of the planned expansion Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort development, the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre is set against the backdrop of the majestic Jebel Hafeet, with sculpted contours that mirror the Centre’s breathtaking surroundings. Celebrating world-class achievement in project delivery in nine key sectors, the MEED Quality Awards for Projects’ ‘Social Project of the Year’ nominees include public spaces, and representatives from the education, healthcare, social housing, community, cultural and religious sectors.

We accept Guest Posts

Download the Dubai City Guide iPhone mobile app

DubaiCityGuide.com is owned and managed by Cyber Gear