The eco award certifies the property's adherence to the strict environmental and sustainability criteria set out by the international Foundation for Environmental Excellence (FEE) and to be maintained via rigorous documentation and regular audits.

The 210-room Citadines Metro Central Dubai, located in Barsha Heights, received the Green Key certification in February 2019, for its exceptional sustainability results, including a combined reduction in energy consumption and waste since the property's rebranding in May 2018.

Implementation of various 'reduce, re-use and recycle' procedures, such as dividing waste for recycle collection, staff training on waste separation and reduction processes, and further energy saving and recycling methods across Housekeeping, Food & Beverage, Engineering and Front Office departments.

"It's an honour to receive this global recognition and we thank all the staff at Citadines Metro Central Dubai for their innovative and consistent commitment towards adopting environmentally friendly principles," said Vincent Miccolis, Ascott's regional GM for the Middle East, Africa and Turkey. "Whether it's teaching employees how to separate waste, holding on-the-job environmental staff training sessions or installing filters in the showers and kitchens to avoid excess usage of water, the property has embraced a sustainable culture that can make a huge difference in attracting and retaining guests."

"As the leading international serviced residence owner-operator, we are uniquely positioned to play a strategic role in transforming business practices and employee mindsets towards more eco-friendly habits. Being Green Key-certified, guests can be assured the property is committed to reducing the environmental impact of their stay," added Miccolis.

The Green Key award is managed in the UAE by Emirates Green Building Council (EmiratesGBC). The council was established in 2006 to advance green building principles in a bid to protect the environment and promote sustainability across the UAE. This is the third consecutive year the property has been awarded the Green Key award.