UDC Showcases Smart-City Vision, Tech-Driven Growth During ‘Qatar Real Estate Forum 2025’

United Development Company (UDC) is placing digital transformation and sustainability at the heart of its development strategy, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and operational excellence.

“Technology is not a support function at UDC – it is at the core of how we deliver value,” UDC president and CEO Yasser Salah al-Jaidah told Gulf Times in an exclusive interview on the occasion of the ‘Qatar Real Estate Forum’, which will run until October 14 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC).

He said, “From planning and construction to sales and community management, every stage of our operations is digitally enabled.” As the forum’s ‘Platinum Sponsor’, al-Jaidah stated that UDC is expected to highlight its smart infrastructure systems that optimise energy, water, and waste management, alongside advanced project management platforms that provide real-time oversight of delivery schedules and budgets.

According to al-Jaidah, UDC has invested in digital platforms that make the investor and resident journey seamless. 

Virtual property tours and customer service apps already allow investors and residents to access information, complete transactions, and receive support from anywhere in the world, he noted.

“At the same time, our customer relationship management systems capture preferences and interactions, enabling us to provide a more tailored and responsive experience. 

Looking ahead, we are moving towards a comprehensive digital listing platform that will feature full property availability on our mobile app and portal. It will be enriched with 3D maps, VR/AR-enabled walkthroughs, street views, and even live reservation capabilities,” al-Jaidah explained.

Al-Jaidah further pointed out that these enhancements will empower both local and international buyers to explore and reserve properties without an onsite visit, reinforcing UDC’s commitment to accessibility, innovation, and customer-centric service.

“Behind the scenes, our customer relationship management systems capture preferences and behaviours, enabling us to offer highly tailored solutions rather than one-size-fits-all interactions.

“The result is a more empowered investor, faster decision-making, and enhanced customer experience that reflects the premium standard of our destinations.

 In essence, technology is helping us bridge geography, simplify choices, and strengthen trust,” he said.

Asked about sustainable development and smart cities, al-Jaidah stated that UDC is integrating smart and sustainable city concepts into its current and future projects: “Sustainability and smart-city thinking are built into every stage of our projects. 

We are embedding efficient transport networks, renewable energy adoption, smart metering, and automated waste systems to reduce emissions and optimise resources.”

He said, “On Gewan Island, energy-efficient building designs and smart infrastructure are reducing consumption, while The Pearl Island incorporates district-cooling networks, comprehensive recycling programmes, and pedestrian-friendly planning that promote greener, healthier lifestyles.

“Our goal is clear: to deliver destinations that combine world-class luxury with environmental responsibility, ensuring residents and visitors experience communities that are sustainable, liveable, and inspiring.”

Citing challenges that developers face when balancing luxury real estate with environmental responsibility, and how UDC is addressing this, al-Jaidah said: “The real challenge is the perception that luxury and sustainability are at odds. At UDC, we see them as complementary.”

He added: “Our unique strength lies in delivering and operating luxury and exclusivity as cost-competitively as possible without ever compromising on quality. We achieve this by applying the classic framework of cost, quality, and delivery, ensuring that each project strikes the right balance that investors and residents can trust. This balance is what allows UDC to deliver destinations that are both aspirational and sustainable.”