The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) has achieved a new milestone by obtaining the global LEED Platinum certification for existing buildings under the Operations and Maintenance system, issued by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).

This rating reflects Ithra’s efforts in implementing an integrated operational system focused on improving resource consumption efficiency, enhancing environmental performance, and adopting best operational practices, aiming to provide an advanced cultural experience supported by efforts to enhance environmental performance.

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In this context, Eng. Abdullah Al-Buqami, Director of Technical and Engineering Services at Ithra, explained that the center’s receipt of the LEED Platinum certification represents an extension of a continuous operational development journey aimed at fostering a more efficient and sustainable environment for the center. Al-Buqami added: "Achieving the Platinum rating reflects long-term efforts to enhance the operational and indoor environmental quality of the center, and embodies the integration of efforts between technical and operational teams in developing a cultural environment that keeps pace with developmental aspirations in the field of operations."

This achievement is an extension of the efforts led by Ithra in developing its operational systems and enhancing energy and water efficiency and resource management, alongside expanding environmental practices and recycling programs within the center’s facilities.

The center also relies on an advanced operational system based on continuous monitoring and analysis of operational and environmental performance, aiming to improve operational efficiency and enhance the quality of services provided, without affecting the visitor experience or the cultural and educational activities hosted by the center throughout the year.

Ithra’s acquisition of the LEED Platinum certification is a new milestone in the center’s path to strengthening its sustainability standards, after previously obtaining LEED Gold certification, reflecting continuous development and improvement of environmental and operational performance efficiency.

This achievement aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 in promoting environmental sustainability, improving the efficiency of vital facilities, and consolidating concepts of sustainable development and quality of life, thereby enhancing the Kingdom’s position in adopting advanced environmental solutions and practices.

The center continues to develop an operational model that combines culture and technology, within its vision of building a more efficient, sustainable, and impactful cultural environment.