Arada successfully implements ISO 26000:2010 standards for leadership in social responsibility
News: 20 February 2024
- Master developer recognised for meeting international CSR standards and contributing to sustainable development
- Approval from external auditor following detailed in-house research confirms ISO adherence for master developer
Arada has achieved ISO 26000:2010 accreditation for its compliance with international corporate social responsibility (CSR) guidelines, as part of the master developer’s ongoing efforts to operate in a more sustainable and accountable manner.
The accreditation took place after extensive in-house research followed by an external audit. ISO 26000:2010 is an international standard that provides guidance on how to integrate socially responsible policies and practices across the organisation.
During the process of applying for accreditation, Arada gathered and centralised all relevant data about its current and previous CSR activities, and also established a more structured tracking system designed to monitor and evaluate all relevant efforts.
Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, said: “As Arada continues to expand, it’s important that we hold ourselves to the highest international standards in everything that we do. I’m delighted that we’ve successfully achieved this certification, which is in line with our aim to provide a healthy, positive and sustainable environment for all our stakeholders.“
Geneva-based ISO (International Organization for Standardization) is an independent international NGO that provides voluntary, consensus-based and market relevant International Standards to support organizational innovation and solutions to global challenges.
The ISO 26000 global standard provides guidance to all organisations, regardless of size or sector, that aim to enhance society’s health and wellbeing, improve their operations and ensure a healthy environment. It also implies that organisations go beyond legal compliance, foster common understanding and support other social responsibility tools and actions.
Home for a Home, Arada’s landmark CSR programme was honoured at last year’s Arabia CSR Awards for its success in providing large scale and effective support to refugees in Kenya. Launched in partnership with The Big Heart Foundation and UNHCR, Home for a Home has resulted in the planned construction of 700 homes for refugees in the Kakuma community, alongside the provision of a safe and sustainable water supply.
Other initiatives conducted by Arada in recent years include partnerships with The Big Heart Foundation to support families in the Gaza Strip during the current crisis, as well as those made homeless during the 2023 earthquake in Syria and Turkey.
