What is a Green Home Finance?
A Green Home Finance is a specialized finance product designed to encourage the purchase of environmentally friendly homes that utilize sustainable products and practices. It offers additional benefits to customers who choose to buy or build energy-efficient and eco-friendly homes.
How can I qualify for a Green Home Finance?
To qualify for a Green Home Finance, you need to purchase a home that was built using sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems and in accordance to green building standards of the United Arab Emirates.
Where can I find details on the green building standards of the United Arab Emirates?
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), you can check if a building is built using sustainable practices and eco-friendly building materials by looking for specific certifications or rating systems. Here are some commonly recognized certifications and rating systems in the UAE:
- Estidama Pearl Rating System: Developed specifically for the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, Estidama's Pearl Rating System assesses the sustainability and environmental performance of buildings. The system evaluates various aspects, including energy efficiency, water conservation, materials used, and indoor environmental quality. Look for buildings that have achieved a ‘Pearl 2’ rating and above.
- Al Sa’fat – Dubai Green Building System: Al Sa’fat, is the green building rating system applicable in the Emirate of Dubai. The system enhances buildings users’ safety and ensures a more sustainable environment for future generations. It also encourages innovation to achieve integration between green systems and technologies in building design, which in turn is reflected in improving performance, reducing energy consumption, increasing the efficiency of electrical and mechanical systems, and therefore reducing the carbon footprint. Look for buildings that have achieved ‘Golden Sa’fa’ rating or higher.
- LEED Certification: The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification is an internationally recognized green building rating system. It evaluates the design, construction, and operation of buildings based on categories such as energy efficiency, water conservation, sustainable materials, and indoor air quality. Look for building that has obtained LEED certification - Gold or Platinum.
- BREEAM Certification: The Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) is another widely recognized sustainability rating system. While it is more commonly used in the UK, some buildings in the UAE may have achieved BREEAM certification. Look for buildings with a BREEAM rating of ‘Very Good’ or above to verify their sustainable practices and eco-friendly features.
- Other global green building rating systems to look for:
- GSAS, Global Sustainability Assessment System, ‘4 Star’ or above
- EDGE, Green Buildings Certification, ‘Good’ or above
When assessing a building's sustainability, you can also inquire with the building developer or owner about the certifications, ratings, or compliance with specific green building regulations. Additionally, some buildings may display plaques or signage indicating their green certifications or sustainable features.
Can I refinance an existing Home Finance into a Green Home Finance?
Unfortunately, this is offer is applicable only on a new Home Finance that meet the required green standards.
Is there a limit to the amount I can avail for a Green Home Finance?
Finance limits for Green Home Finance are typically determined based on factors such as your income, credit history, and the value of the property. It is advisable to consult with our experienced and dedicated Home Finance Relationship Managers to guide you through the entire application process.
Which all projects are currently available to finance under Green Home Finance?
Below list of projects can currently be financed under Green Home Loans:
- The Sustainable City – Dubai
- The Sustainable City Yas Island – Abu Dhabi
- Sharjah Sustainable City - Sharjah