The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is emerging as a focal point for global data centre industry leaders. Looking ahead, the UAE is poised to redefine standards in energy efficiency, edge computing, and cybersecurity, setting a new benchmark for data centres worldwide.
At the forefront of this digital evolution is Khazna Data Centres. It will be one of the largest data centres in the region, shouldered by a joint venture between JLW Middle East and McLaren Construction. Khazna’s hyperscale wholesale data centres provide secure, efficient, and scalable facilities, empowering ICT strategies and facilitating digital transformation for leading global organisations.
In discussing the data centre’s sustainable initiatives, Ramy Boufarhat, CEO of JLW underscored the project’s pronounced commitment to environmental excellence. He emphasised that the project was engineered to navigate not only internal complexities but also external environmental challenges. The team prioritised sustainability, aligning with Khazna’s dedication to eco-conscious measures and the UAE’s sustainability goals.
The data centre project achieved remarkable results in energy efficiency, halving energy consumption compared to traditional data centres through innovative engineering and operational adjustments. Beyond energy, the project also focused on water conservation, incorporating progressive measures such as stormwater and condensate recovery to promote sustainable water practises.
Boufarhat noted the project’s environmentally responsible power sourcing, involving an alternative source through Khazna’s collaboration with off-site photovoltaic systems from Masdar. This step significantly reduced the carbon footprint while enhancing grid reliability. Additionally, the project showcased its commitment to cooling efficiency by using adiabatic chillers and selecting high-performance, energy-efficient components to optimise operational efficiency.
The project’s sustainability efforts extended to waste management, achieving an impressive 80% recycling rate for construction waste. The team also prioritised the use of eco-friendly materials, reflecting their holistic approach to eco-responsibility in alignment with the global sustainability dialogue.
As the project nears completion, Boufarhat remains confident that the Middle East’s data centre landscape will continue to evolve toward greater efficiency and sustainability, setting a high standard for the industry globally.
