Embedding sustainability intelligence in BIM: automating ESTIDAMA materials evaluation for UAE residential projects

Abstract

This study aims to develop and validate a building information modeling (BIM)-based automation framework that integrates the Estidama Pearl Rating System (PRS) directly into Autodesk Revit. The research focuses on the Materials category, addressing the industry’s reliance on manual documentation and static assessment methods. It seeks to enable real-time sustainability evaluation and enhance accuracy, efficiency and decision-making during the design phase of residential projects in the United Arab Emirates. A partially automated Revit-based framework was developed using parameterized data structures representing Estidama’s Materials subcredits. These parameters are dynamically linked with Dynamo automation scripts for rule-based calculations and credit scoring, while One Click Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) integration provides embodied carbon and environmental impact data consistent with Estidama’s requirements. The system was validated through a three-story residential villa in Dubai, testing feasibility, accuracy and responsiveness under actual design conditions. The framework partially automated measurable subcategories of Estidama’s Materials section, reducing manual effort by approximately 90% and improving calculation accuracy to within a 1% error margin. Dynamic linkage between model parameters and sustainability metrics allowed real-time recalculation of scores following design modifications. The results confirm that BIM can function as an intelligent sustainability engine, transforming Estidama assessment into a proactive design-stage process. The framework currently depends on accurate manual entry of supplier and material data. Future enhancements could integrate automated data sourcing and expand applicability to other rating systems, including Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method. By automating Estidama assessments, the framework minimizes consultant workload, reduces reporting time and ensures consistent compliance, supporting faster project approvals and improved sustainability outcomes. The study promotes climate-responsive construction aligned with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategy by encouraging wider adoption of digital sustainability assessment practices in the Gulf region. This research is the first to automate Estidama PRS scoring within Autodesk Revit using Dynamo and LCA integration. Unlike existing LEED or BREEAM automation frameworks, it provides a region-specific, parameterized and scalable solution tailored to the UAE’s sustainability standards. The study contributes a replicable foundation for future digitalization of local certification systems and advances BIM’s role in data-driven environmental compliance.