Unified GCC building code likely by 2015
Saudi Arabian building code to form the basis of the unified code
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Representatives from the GCC have met in Oman to discuss a proposed unified building code, which is likely to come into effect after 2015.
The meeting resulted in the decision that the unified code would be in tune with international guidelines and will be drafted considering the environmental needs and topography of the region, a report in the Muscat Daily said.
“We have decided that the building code of Saudi Arabia will form the basis of the unified code. We will customise it through a pilot project which will be implemented across the GCC, before the code comes into effect,” Saoud Nasser Mansoor Al Khusaibi, director general for Standards and Metrology, Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
“We are following the required ISO norms. The aim is to implement a code which focuses on safe and environmentally-friendly architecture in the region.”
Al Khusaibi added that the pilot project would help frame the unified code, which will be implemented over a three year period after 2015.
The director general also pointed out that a 40-member team was working to draft the code.
“We will also take views of stakeholders like builders and residents. The pilot project will also look into possible problems that might come up once the code comes into effect,” he explained.
