In order to build a healthier, more sustainable workplace for its employees, Cigna has achieved the WELL Gold accreditation by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) for Cigna’s headquarters in the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). This makes Cigna the first global health services company in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to achieve this certification. Cigna Corporation is a global health service company dedicated to helping people improve their health, well-being, and peace of mind.

This prestigious distinction marks Cigna’s continued focus on adopting and promoting employee well-being in the workplace. AESG supported Cigna by providing WELL consultancy services for the project.

Isil Ata, head of human resources at Cigna Middle East & Africa said: “Achieving the WELL Gold certification is a proud moment for Cigna. It symbolises our commitment not just in our role as global leaders in the health and well-being industry but also a promise to our employees to continue providing a better and more holistic workplace that improves their health and positively impacts their overall well-being. A healthy work environment increases efficiency and productivity, which reinforces the need for a sustainable workplace. The timing of this is especially relevant as employees now return to work in the new normal. We will continue to build a safe and healthy environment for employees as they return to work and ensure our workplace wellness programs address employee needs.”

“We are proud to have been appointed as WELL consultants to help Cigna achieve the WELL Gold certification and LEED precertification. This has been an accomplishment that emphasises our commitment to supporting our clients in promoting sustainability, health and well-being,” said Saeed Al Abbar, managing director at AESG.

The 20,000sqft premises is a fully-fledged office space that will accommodate more than 200 Cigna employees across the company’s group health and individual private medical insurance (IPMI) businesses. AESG worked to incorporate several innovative design features in the Cigna MENA head office, many of which are first in the region. Through the implementation of design features such as circadian lighting design, low-glare workstations, increased ventilation and advanced air filtration, the team have ensured a healthy and comfortable indoor working environment. An extensive education and awareness campaign, including wall art and signage, post-occupant surveys and incentive programs, contribute towards engagement with Cigna employees on wider physical and mental health issues to promote a healthier, happier lifestyle for all.