Evaluating the Significance of Digital Twin Technologies Enhancing Thermal Comfort and Energy Efficiency in Saudi Arabian Commercial Buildings

Abstract

The subject of focus of this study is the utilization of Digital Twin (DT) technology in improving thermal comfort and energy performance in Saudi Arabian commercial buildings. Hence, the study also shows the increased relevance of DT in controlling and enhancing energy consumption, especially in the Saudi climate. In this study, the authors use a combination of qualitative content analysis and quantitative questionnaires to professional stakeholders to reveal some of the issues like data privacy, compatibility with existing structures, and high initial costs. It also analyses the effects of government policies such as Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Transformation Program on DT technology adoption. The results indicate that DT has the potential to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability of commercial buildings but only if there is a way to overcome technological, regulatory, and cultural challenges. This dissertation provides policy implications for the policymakers and industry stakeholders to accelerate the diffusion of DT in Saudi Arabia’s commercial real estate sector.