Tackling climate change, KAFD DMC partners with Japan’s Sumitomo Corporation Middle East FZE

The King Abdullah Financial District Development and Management Company (KAFD DMC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)with Sumitomo Corporation Middle East FZE (SCME) to use its innovative eco-friendly coating solutions to reduce the heat island effect on surfaces within KAFD.

Cities, or metropolises, are typically warmer and have slightly higher temperatures than rural areas. This makes them "islands of heat," a thermal phenomenon that raises the temperature in urban areas, especially at night, exacerbating climate change and harming health.

The products, manufactured in Japan using state-of-the-art technology, will be applied to reflect infrared radiation which in return reduces surface temperature thus extending the lifetime of the surface by minimizing the heat flow into the district while reducing its maintenance cost.     

The MOU is intended to support KAFD's goals for smart city development and technological advancements to create energy-efficient, intelligent buildings.

KAFD DMC owns and manages the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), the largest mixed-use development in the region and Saudi Arabia’s prime financial hub. Strategically located in the heart of Riyadh, KAFD is home to 1.6 million square meters of state-of-the-art office space, world-class venues and iconic luxury residences and is the largest LEED-certified mixed-use financial district in the world. A landmark development, KAFD is a cornerstone initiative of Vision 2030.

Commenting on the agreement, Gautam Sashittal, Chief Executive Officer of KAFD DMC, said, "Combatting climate change is a priority for KAFD as a modern, sustainable metropolis. It’s estimated that by 2030, 1.9 billion people will be exposed to heat stress, and this collaboration with Sumitomo is an excellent opportunity for the district to develop heat resilience and sustainable cooling solutions. By lowering the temperature, we will contribute to a better living and working environment for our tenants and residents and employees.”

Hajime Mori, Managing Director, Sumitomo Corporation Middle East FZE, added, “We are honoured to have the opportunity to collaborate on this project with KAFD, implementing our advanced solutions. Sustainability is a top priority for both companies. With this agreement, we look forward to working with KAFD DMC and sharing our experiences to enhance energy efficiency in its facilities.”

Along with SCME, KAFD aims to be a beacon of energy sustainability for other regional and global business destinations. Employing Solar Heat Reflective coating will enable a lower-carbon lifestyle in the district, reflecting KAFD’s commitment to sustainable solutions and combating climate change.