Dhofar University’s College of Engineering Partners with GORD to Advance Sustainability in Oman

In a significant step toward sustainability, Dhofar University’s College of Engineering has launched its first initiative under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Gulf Organisation for Research & Development (GORD), based in Qatar. This collaboration began with a workshop on the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS), organized by Dr. Issam Al-Bahdoor, Dean of the College of Engineering, and Dr. Lamia Mostafa.

Held from February 23 to 25, 2025, the workshop featured experts from GORD, including Dr. Iman Al-Iskandarani, Engineer Mohammed Al-Najjar, and Engineer Ibrahim Al-Jundi. The sessions focused on environmental and architectural sustainability standards, incorporating practical training to enhance knowledge among professionals and students. The event attracted over 80 participants from various sectors, providing a platform to join an expanding network of green building experts.

GSAS: A Pioneering Green Building Standard

GSAS is the first integrated green building rating system in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), developed by GORD. It evaluates the environmental performance of projects across design, construction, and operational phases. With over 2,500 certified projects, GSAS is rapidly expanding in the Gulf, promoting resource efficiency, pollution reduction, and improved quality of life.

A Strategic Partnership for Sustainability

Through this MoU, Dhofar University joins a growing regional network of leading educational institutions in Qatar and Kuwait, aiming to spread GSAS knowledge and equip professionals and students with advanced tools for sustainable construction, reinforcing Oman’s commitment to global sustainability standards.