Building for the Future: How Energy Efficiency Shapes Sustainable Design in the Middle East

Energy efficiency is no longer a value-add - it's an expectation. Clients are looking for smarter ways to design, deliver and operate buildings that perform from day one while aligning with ambitious net-zero targets and long-term sustainability goals.

In this Q&A, Jacobs Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) Director Kesavaraman Arumugam, based in the Middle East, shares his perspective on how program owners and developers in the region are embedding energy efficiency from the earliest design stages. He outlines how passive strategies, digital tools and performance-based delivery models are helping ensure buildings achieve smarter, greener outcomes - not just on paper, but in real-world operation.

How is your focus on energy efficiency in building design helping deliver Jacobs' strategy for smarter, more sustainable infrastructure in the Middle East?

Energy efficiency is more than just a baseline - it's integral to how we design for the region's climate, regulatory frameworks and long-term sustainability goals. My role focuses on embedding energy efficiency principles from the outset, using integrated design strategies that reduce operational costs, optimize building performance and support future-ready developments. This aligns with Jacobs' global strategy to deliver high-performing, resilient infrastructure that supports net-zero ambitions and meets the evolving needs of clients in the Middle East.

How are clients in the region advancing toward net-zero and net-positive outcomes, even when these targets are not yet mandated in building codes?

Clients in the Middle East are increasingly focused on achieving net-zero or net-positive developments. We're seeing this through clear sustainability goals, greater use of renewable energy and adoption of smart technologies - all going beyond what's required by regulation. Green financing and environmental, social and governance (ESG) trends are also accelerating this shift. These efforts support national climate strategies, attract top tenants and boost long-term property value - a win for both environmental impact and commercial performance.

How are digital twins and operational readiness strategies helping ensure buildings deliver on their intended energy performance, not just in design but in real-world operation?

Digital twins are playing a key role in ensuring buildings perform as intended throughout their lifecycle. They allow us to simulate energy use, detect potential issues early and optimize system performance before construction begins. Once operational, digital twins support real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance and ongoing performance optimization based on actual conditions.

Operational readiness has also evolved. It's no longer just about technical handover - it's about ensuring functionality from day one. That means testing systems in real-world scenarios, training staff and providing post-handover support through frameworks like soft landings. When paired with performance-based contracts, these strategies help align stakeholders around shared energy goals and ensure buildings operate efficiently from the start.

How can passive design strategies and climate-responsive orientation be applied at the building level to improve comfort and reduce energy demand in the Middle East's extreme climate?

In the Middle East's hot climate, passive design plays a critical role in helping buildings stay cool and energy efficient. By reducing sun exposure through thoughtful master planning, using natural airflow and incorporating shading, we can lower cooling loads from the outset. Green roofs and courtyards improve ventilation, while natural light strategies help cut electricity use. Together, these measures make buildings more sustainable, comfortable and cost-effective to operate.

How are government authorities, developers and delivery teams aligning around energy performance goals in large-scale developments, especially when regulations are still evolving?

Government bodies, developers and project teams across the Middle East are working more closely to meet energy goals on major projects. National frameworks like UAE Net Zero 2050 and Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 are guiding sustainable development, while developers often adopt voluntary standards like LEED to benchmark performance. This collaborative approach is making energy performance a core part of modern project delivery, not just a regulatory checkbox.

How can program owners gain greater certainty around budget, schedule and performance when delivering complex, energy-efficient developments?

Delivering energy-efficient developments at scale requires early alignment, robust modeling and clear accountability. Integrated project design and delivery brings stakeholders together early, reducing rework and delays. Digital tools like BIM help teams coordinate across disciplines, detect design clashes and maintain alignment between scope, cost and schedule.

Phased energy modeling ensures targets are met at each stage, while performance-based contracts and real-time monitoring keep delivery aligned with sustainability goals. Regular team workshops also support shared accountability and help resolve issues before they escalate.

What differentiates Jacobs' approach when it comes to delivering smarter, adaptable and resilient buildings that are both digitally and environmentally future-ready?

Jacobs delivers smarter, resilient buildings by integrating sustainability, technology and long-term energy planning across the entire project lifecycle. We design for climate risks and evolving regulations, using tools that support energy-efficient, future-ready spaces. Our global insight combined with regional expertise helps clients reduce risk, meet sustainability goals and maximize long-term value from day one of operation.