ISLAMABAD; Serena Hotels, a leading hospitality group committed to sustainable
tourism, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Aga Khan
Agency for Habitat (AKAH) to pursue IFC EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater
Efficiencies) Building Certification for its two upcoming hotels, Hunza Serena Hotel and
Sost Serena Hotel. The signing ceremony took place at Islamabad Serena Hotel on
May 31, 2023.
The MoU signifies a significant milestone for Serena Hotels as it further strengthens the
company’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices in the
construction and operation of its properties. The collaboration with the Aga Khan
Agency for Habitat Pakistan, (formerly known as Aga Khan Planning and Building
Service, Pakistan or AKPBSP), a global leader in promoting resilient and sustainable
habitat solutions, will technically assist that the new hotels are designed and built to the
highest international standards of energy efficiency and resource conservation.
EDGE Certification is a globally recognized green building rating system developed by
the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group. It
promotes sustainable practices in the building industry by incorporating measures for
energy efficiency, water conservation, and the use of environmentally friendly materials.
By pursuing this certification, Serena Hotels aims to minimize the ecological footprint of
its hotels and provide guests with an exceptional and sustainable hospitality experience.
During the signing ceremony, Management from Serena Hotels and AKAH expressed
their enthusiasm for the collaboration and their shared vision of creating environmentally
responsible and climate resilient structures. They emphasized the importance of
sustainable tourism in preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the regions where
the hotels are located.
Speaking about the collaboration, Mr. Aziz Boolani CEO Serena Hotels, South and
Central Asia said, “We are delighted to partner with the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat in
our pursuit of IFC EDGE Certification for our new hotels. Sustainability lies at the heart
of Serena Hotels’ ethos, and this collaboration will enable us to enhance our
commitment to responsible tourism. We look forward to setting new benchmarks in
green building practices and providing our guests with an unforgettable and
environmentally conscious stay.”
Ms. Nusrat Nasab, CEO AKAH Pakistan stated, “Our collaboration with Serena Hotels
will contribute towards the AKDN’s Environment & Climate Commitment and our net-
zero carbon emission goal. AKAH brings technical expertise in green buildings, climate
smart initiatives and nature-based solutions. Hotel industries that are environmentally
responsible, culturally sensitive, and aesthetically pleasing will definitely promote eco-
friendly sustainable tourism and employment opportunities in the region”.
The Hunza Serena and Sost Serena hotels, currently under construction, are
strategically positioned in the breathtaking landscapes of Hunza and Sost in Pakistan.
These properties are designed to blend harmoniously with the surroundings, taking
inspiration from local architectural traditions and incorporating modern sustainability
principles. Once completed, Hunza Serena and Sost Serena hotels will join Serena
Hotels’ portfolio of environmentally conscious properties, which have been recognized
globally for their sustainable practices and commitment to community development.
