At the complex, which is named after the current ruling of Saudi Arabia, King Abdullah, scientists from around the world will engage in research in various scientific fields, united by the common theme of energy; three main areas have already been identified: politics and economics, energy and environmental technologies, and energy information and modeling.
Despite the connection with oil production stated in the name of the center, the management of the center emphasizes its focus, among other things, on the development and study of alternative energy sources, which also resulted in increased "green" requirements for the project of its campus. As a result, future construction will be able to qualify for LEED platinum certification.
The ensemble of the center will be located next to the international airport of the Saudi capital, so its buildings will be the first that will be seen by travelers arriving there. The main building is supposed to be modular, consisting of hexahedral cells with permeable ceilings and a free plan "stimulating dialogue" between scientists of different specialties.
A library building will be erected nearby. Also nearby will be a conference center, combined with a residential area for researchers and their families; it is planned to create a developed infrastructure and green spaces there.
Among the environmental elements of the project are the widespread use of natural lighting and ventilation, shading of facades, the use of LED lamps and solar panels.
Among Hadid's rivals in the architectural competition was Tom Main: in his idea, the entire Center could be placed in one building, closely connected with the surrounding landscape - partly natural, partly - created by man.
