Saudi Arabia is rapidly positioning itself as a global leader in sustainability, driven by the ambitious Vision 2030 agenda. The Kingdom is investing heavily in renewable energy, green buildings and climate resilience measures to reduce its carbon footprint and diversify its economy. With giga projects like NEOM, Red Sea Global, Qiddiya and Diriyah Gate, sustainability has become the foundation of modern development. This transformation makes LEED certification one of the most sought after frameworks for ensuring projects meet international green building standards.
The green construction market in Saudi Arabia is projected to generate over USD 16.5 billion in 2024, growing at more than 12% CAGR until 2030. Cities like Riyadh and Jeddah are already leading the shift, with Riyadh hosting nearly 866 LEED-certified projects, placing Saudi Arabia among the top five LEED markets worldwide. This rapid growth reflects not just compliance, but also strong investor demand for buildings that deliver energy savings, lower operating costs and ESG-aligned performance.
The government is actively supporting the shift with initiatives such as the Saudi Green Initiative, which targets the planting of 10 billion trees, and Green Riyadh, a $32 million program that will add millions of trees and green spaces across the city. These efforts create a strong ecosystem where LEED and other sustainability standards are not just encouraged but aligned with national climate goals. For developers and investors, this creates a clear advantage in pursuing LEED Gold and Platinum certifications.
For project owners, contractors, and developers, LEED certification goes beyond a sustainability label. It directly translates into reduced energy and water consumption, healthier indoor environments, and long-term cost savings. LEED-certified buildings also carry greater market value and tenant appeal, while aligning with global ESG reporting standards that are becoming essential for international investors and lenders. In the Saudi context, LEED complements national frameworks like Mostadam, ensuring that projects meet both global and local sustainability requirements.
At APA Green Building Consultants (APA GBC), we provide end-to-end LEED services in Saudi Arabia, helping projects achieve certification efficiently and cost effectively. Our support includes:
Strategic credit selection to maximize points and align with Vision 2030.
Energy modeling and water efficiency simulations to optimize performance.
Sustainable material sourcing with EPDs, HPDs and local supply chain guidance.
Commissioning and quality assurance to verify system efficiency and compliance.
Complete LEED Online documentation and submission to USGBC for certification.
By combining our global LEED expertise with knowledge of Saudi codes and Mostadam requirements, we streamline the certification journey for clients. Whether you are working on a commercial tower in Riyadh, a hospitality project in the Red Sea, or a residential development in Jeddah, our consultancy ensures your project achieves LEED Gold or Platinum while staying practical and cost-efficient. By working with us, you gain more than just certification, you gain a trusted partner who helps improve building performance, attract ESG focused investors and contribute to Saudi Arabia’s sustainable future
