The design concept pays homage to the UAE’s rich heritage by taking inspiration from its national tree, the Ghaf. The Ghaf has deep and far-reaching roots that typify the extent of ancestors and travelers who have found solace and refuge under its inclusive canopy. As an endemic species, the Ghaf is an enduring symbol of shelter, resilience and permanence, linking the past to the present and providing a perfect basis for design of an innovative, futuristic and sustainable station.
The highlight feature of the station is represented by the Ghaf-shaped canopy. Built using more the light and eco-friendly carbon fibre – the canopy’s frame structure also includes a cushion canopy that is UV ray-protected and corrosion-proof. In service of client’s vision of energy efficiency, the design recruits renewable energy to generate power. 283 solar photovoltaic (PV) panels are installed in the canopy to generate solar power, on top of wind energy propelled by an unprecedented incorporation of a 25 metre wind turbine.
The service station received the LEED platinum certification —world’s first station to receive such honor —validating its performance on metrics such as energy savings, water efficiency, CO2 emissions, etc.
