Dubai is considered the hub of architectural and technological advancement with time. Dubai outdoes itself by designing and constructing more advanced and creative structures built each year. By 2030 Dubai aims to increase the structures that are 3D printed by 25 percent, which is the new initiative regarded as Dubai’s 3D Printing strategy.
The UAE aims to introduce a 3D printing strategy that contributes to the progress and future of the country. It is the first integrated and comprehensive strategy, that introduces 3D printing to humanity.3D printing strategy was initially introduced to turn the UAE into the leading global hub of 3D printing.
Dubai’s 3D Printing Strategy
“Dubai’s 3D Printing Strategy “is a unique global initiative launched by The Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The strategy aims to develop and integrate 3D printing for the service of humanity and promote UAE’s status.
His Highness mentions the initiative; ” Our key goal is to ensure that 25 percent of buildings in Dubai are based on 3D printing technology by 2030, and we will raise this percentage with the development of global technology as well as the growth of market demand. We believe that this technology is capable of transforming the construction sector by lowering costs and reducing the time it takes to implement projects.” and added “Our vision for development is driven by a deep understanding of the future needs, and built on proactive ideas because we want to be in first place globally. Our methodology for development is based on the launch of initiatives that can be applied anywhere in the world and creating a global model for not only our economy but also for the global economy,”
His Highness said, before continuing; “The future does not wait for those who hesitate and slow down. The next stage requires us to act fast and utilize the opportunities. A few days ago, we launched the Dubai Future Agenda and we have started to implement it through a number of initiatives and strategies which add value to humanity and our national economy.
Benefits of the 3D Printing imitative;
- Reduce manpower requirement for construction
- Reduce the waste generated and the carbon footprint
- Reduce the time required to build structures
- Increase the development of global technology (Can transform the construction sector)
The focus is on construction joints, foundations, facilities, buildings for the public; mobile homes, stores, etc. 3D printing in construction value will increase by about AED 3 billion by 2025.
Medical Products
3D printing value in the medical industry is expected to reach AED 1.7 billion by 2025. In the medical sector 3D printing is utilized for printing teeth, surgery devices, hearing aids, etc.
Consumer Products
3D printing focus on producing consumer products such as fashion, sportswear, games, and household products. Consumer products by 3D printing in Dubai will increase by AED 2.8 billion by 2025.
5 Pillars of 3D Printing strategy
Infrastructure
The infrastructure pillar focuses on providing the right infrastructure, research support, and development.
Legislative Structure
The legislative pillar focuses on the development of a regulatory framework for the utilization of 3D printing in several sectors.
Funding
The funding pillar focuses on providing financial alternatives and financial support for technology development.
Talent
The Talent pillar aims to bring the best minds from around the world into the 3D printing field.
Market demand
The Market Demand pillar aims to promote the application of the technology to various sectors.
The 3D printing strategy aims to make Dubai a global hub for 3D printing. Several structures are being proposed and built that utilizes 3D printing in construction and design. Dubai is also home not only to the tallest structure but also to the largest 3D-printed structure in the world (The Dubai Municipality).
3D Printing Strategic Alliance
The Crown Prince of Dubai along with the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) launched the 3D Printing Strategic Alliance. The initiative is the first of its kind introduced which is a network of government entities and academic and 3D printing companies all over the world.
The Alliance seeks to produce a wide range of products and services to meet the demands of the meet to achieve self-sufficiency.
Dubai is home to several 3d printed structures constructed and proposed, evidence of technological and architectural advancements in Dubai. Dubai houses the world’s first 3D-printed fully functional office known as the Office of the Future designed by Killa Design.
The Office of the Future | Killa Design, Gensler
Location: Dubai, UAE
Architect: Killa Design
Project type: Mixed use
Completed: 2016
The Office of the Future is the world’s first fully functional and occupied 3D-printed office located in Dubai, UAE. The entire structure is manufactured utilizing the additive concrete printing technique. The office is home to an exhibition space and incubator for future emerging technology and the Dubai Future Foundation. The mixed-use concrete structure is 120 feet long, 40 feet wide, and 20 feet high.
The structure is a part of “Dubai’s 3D Printing Strategy” Proposal that focuses on the development of 3D printing towards technology advanced in several sectors of society. The structure being 3D printed helps reduce the construction costs by 50 percent and reduce waste generated hence overall helping reduce carbon footprint.
World’s First 3D Printed Mosque | IACAD
By 2025 – MEP Middle East
Location: Dubai, UAE
Project type: Religious
Completed: Expected by 2025
The future structures that are brought up in Dubai’s majority aim to be 3D printed. An upcoming mosque being built in Dubai is considered to be the world’s first 3D-printed mosque. The mosque is expected to be constructed by 2025 and can house 600 worshippers.
3D Printed Dior Store | WASP
Location: Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE
Construction: WASP
Project type: Commercial (Store)
Completed: Inauguration -25 October 2021
This unique 3D-printed pop-up store for Dior is located at Nammos beach, Jumeirah in Dubai. The Dior installation consists of two circular modules 3D printed from natural materials. An innovative 3D printing technique (System – Crane WASP) was implemented for constructing the wall. Natural materials utilized were a combination of clay, sand, and raw fibers.
3D printing is the future of technologically advanced construction, medicine development, product design, etc. Dubai has initiated the 3D printing strategy as a part of its Future Cities Programme. 3D printing as a strategy shortly will also be introduced by each country for their growth and advancement.
