A net zero energy headquarters for Dubai Electricity and Water Authority

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) developed Al Shera'a, its headquarters in Dubai, as part of its vision to be a leading sustainable and innovative organization. Al Shera'a is the tallest, largest and smartest government net zero energy building in the world. Johnson Controls and Microsoft provided advanced digital and smart building technologies to support the project.

Impact Highlights

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Supports net positive operations

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Enables AI-driven building insights

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Enhances employee health and well-being

Creating a smart, sustainable headquarters for the future

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) set out to create a headquarters that reflects its commitment to sustainability and innovation. The organization wanted to deploy artificial intelligence and digital solutions throughout Al Shera'a while supporting net zero energy objectives. The building was designed so that the total energy consumed annually would be equal to or less than the energy produced on-site.

DEWA also sought to create a workplace experience that supports employee productivity, well-being and engagement while leveraging intelligent technologies to simplify everyday interactions within its headquarters.

Connecting intelligent building technologies to optimize performance

Johnson Controls, in partnership with Microsoft, implemented digital twin technologies, the Internet of Things (IoT), cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and advanced smart building management solutions throughout Al Shera'a. The building includes AI-enabled capabilities across systems and spaces, including a digital concierge for occupants and visitors. Johnson Controls also implemented OpenBlue solutions to support remote diagnostics, predictive maintenance, compliance monitoring and advanced risk assessments. These technologies help monitor energy efficiency and space performance through centralized AI-driven insights.

The building also incorporates occupancy-based energy management, intelligent maintenance capabilities and a range of digital workplace services designed to enhance the occupant experience. These include smart meeting room functionality, smart parking and elevator experiences, virtual assistance services and integrated food and beverage ordering capabilities. Digital touchpoints throughout the facility also support DEWA brand visibility and employee engagement.

Supporting sustainability, efficiency, and occupant experience

Al Shera'a demonstrates how digital technologies can support sustainability objectives while creating a connected workplace experience. AI, IoT, digital twin technology and OpenBlue solutions provide intelligence that helps manage energy efficiency, space performance and building operations. Occupants benefit from digital services that streamline daily interactions and enhance experiences throughout the facility, while intelligent maintenance capabilities support more proactive building operations.

  • Supports net positive operations
  • Expected to use up to 50% less water than comparable buildings
  • Net zero energy design where annual energy consumption is planned to be equal to or less than energy generated on-site.

About Dubai Electricity and Water Authority

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is the exclusive provider of electricity and water services in Dubai and employs more than 11,000 people. Al Shera'a serves as DEWA's headquarters and reflects the organization's focus on sustainability and innovation.

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About the facility

  • DEWA’s headquarters in Dubai, UAE
  • 20 floors
  • 5000 occupants
  • Designed for LEED Platinum and WELL Silver certifications

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