The Sustainable City, the Middle East’s first fully operational sustainable community, welcomed the President of the Republic of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov, on his official visit to the City.

The President, who was accompanied by senior representatives from the Republic of Tatarstan, explored the region’s first sustainable development and discussed future joint collaborations.

The visit began with an introduction to The Sustainable City from Diamond Developers, followed by a guided tour of the City.

The President and his entourage were taken on a tour of the residential clusters, the farm, the biodomes, the equestrian centre and the plaza.

The delegation was also given an update on the progress of phase 2 of The Sustainable City. Phase 2 includes the newly-launched Indigo Hotel, a soon-to-open school, as well as a hospital and an institute.

Rustam Minnikhanov, President of the Republic of Tatarstan, commented: “We are delighted to have been invited to The Sustainable City, where we discovered a successful model of how sustainable solutions can be seamlessly integrated into the built environment, thus not just preserving our environment, but also enhancing the lives of its residents.”

“The ambition of this project is highly impressive, as are the community’s comprehensive facilities and amenities. The Sustainable City is a glimpse into the future,” he added.

Faris Saeed, Chief Executive Officer, Diamond Developers, said: “We are honoured to have received the President of the Republic of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov at The Sustainable City. His visit gave us the valuable opportunity to show him the City’s progress and achievements. Today, the City is home to over 400 families, who are enjoying a happy, healthy and sustainable lifestyle.”

He added: “Visits such as these by government officials are an extremely vital part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen and expand our global ties as well as spreading the message of our sustainable mission across the world.”