Smart Urban Living: Aldar-Siemens Initiative at Saadiyat Grove 

Aldar Properties and Siemens join forces to transform Saadiyat Grove into a global smart living exemplar. Using Siemens’ Xcelerator portfolio and Building X platform, Aldar will introduce the UAE’s first cloud-based smart district management system. This partnership marks a significant investment in smart technology, enhancing eco-conscious living and supporting Aldar’s Net Zero Plan. 

Saadiyat Grove’s smart system will feature advanced energy analytics, IoT sensors, and AI technologies, ensuring optimal performance and a personalized experience for residents and tenants. This innovative approach streamlines asset management, setting a new standard for smart living in Abu Dhabi. 

Jonathan Emery, Chief Executive Officer at Aldar Development, said: “Introducing the UAE’s first cloud-based district management solution at Saadiyat Grove represents a major advancement in the application of digital technology at scale in the real estate sector. Our partnership with Siemens forms part of Aldar’s ongoing commitment to transforming lives and landscapes for positive impact, leveraging innovation to introduce new sustainable living solutions that deliver meaningful emission reductions. Implementing this advanced smart district management system at Saadiyat Grove establishes a benchmark for smart living in Abu Dhabi and we look forward to expanding its use across Saadiyat Cultural District and beyond.” 

Helmut von Struve, CEO of Siemens in the Middle East and the UAE, said: “We are honoured to work with Aldar on this pioneering project. Using the latest offerings from Siemens Xcelerator, our open digital business platform that enables digital transformation faster and at a larger scale, Aldar will be able to manage its portfolio more efficiently and provide the district’s residents and visitors a more comfortable and safer environment in which to live and work.” 

Saadiyat Grove, located in Abu Dhabi’s Cultural District, is positioned to serve as a model for smart and sustainable development both locally and globally. The project encompasses a business park covering around 26,000 square meters of net leasable area (NLA), featuring four Grade A commercial office buildings. Additionally, the retail component of Saadiyat Grove spans approximately 78,000 square meters of NLA, accommodating community retail spaces, two retail boulevards, and a central shopping destination. This comprehensive setup aims to introduce new experiential retail, dining, and entertainment concepts to enhance the emirate’s urban landscape. 

Emma O’Brien (pictured) is the General Counsel at Aldar, and is responsible for the company’s legal and governance affairs.