Developing regulations to improve the energy efficiency of buildings in Arabian Gulf countries

As in other parts of the world, building legislation has been used since the 1980s by governmentbodies in the Arabian Gulf countries. These countries sought to reduce rising electrical consumption(6.7% per year) during the construction boom following the discovery of oil. Generally, however, theseearly regulations are limited in scope and have been implemented in a piecemeal manner across thedifferent countries. This paper outlines the research strategy needed to develop the regulations furtherto improve the energy efficiency of buildings in this region according to their specific requirements andcontextual conditions. The process of issuing regulations is complicated because of the number ofparties involved and affected. It must consider carefully the targeted society, in addition to ameticulous selection of type and component of regulations, which must be based on scientificresearch and study. The paper also discusses the implementation process for regulations, which playsa key issue in assuring proper application by all parties.