King Abdullah district joins UN Global Compact to lead sustainability efforts in Kingdom

King Abdullah Financial District Development and Management Co., KAFD DMC, has joined the UN Global Compact, marking a significant step toward promoting sustainable business practices in the region. (AN Photo)

• The announcement highlights the company’s commitment to aligning with the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative
• By joining the UN Global Compact, KAFD pledges to integrate 10 principles covering human rights, labor, environment and anti-corruption into its operations

RIYADH: King Abdullah Financial District Development and Management Co., KAFD DMC, has joined the UN Global Compact, marking a significant step toward promoting sustainable business practices in the region.
The announcement, made at the KAFD Conference Center in Riyadh on Wednesday, highlights the company’s commitment to aligning with the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative.
By joining the UN Global Compact, KAFD pledges to integrate 10 principles covering human rights, labor, environment and anti-corruption into its operations, reinforcing its dedication to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Ibrahim Al-Helali, executive director of the UN Global Compact Network in Saudi Arabia, highlighted the importance of starting with a mindset shift toward sustainability.
“To start, begin by thinking about sustainability,” he said.
“Once businesses start thinking about it, they can explore how to develop these thoughts and ideas into strategic action plans for the future. KAFD is setting a powerful example for businesses across Saudi Arabia,” he added.
KAFD’s innovative design features, including energy-efficient buildings and the climate-controlled central wadi, demonstrate its commitment to sustainable solutions. More than 40 buildings in the district have achieved Silver and Gold LEED certifications, showcasing significant energy savings compared to conventional structures.
Gautam Sashittal, CEO of KAFD DMC, expressed pride in joining forces with the UNGC, saying: “By integrating UNGC principles into our corporate strategy, we aim to not only meet global sustainability standards, but also contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of Riyadh and beyond.”
The announcement was part of KAFD’s “Spotlight Series,” which featured a panel discussion on “The Role of Business in Advancing Sustainable Development.” Key stakeholders, including representatives from PwC Middle East Network and GBCI, gathered to discuss collaborative approaches to achieving sustainable economic growth.
KAFD’s commitment to the UNGC is expected to inspire other businesses in Saudi Arabia to adopt similar sustainable practices, marking a significant milestone in the region’s journey toward a sustainable future.