Dubai plans to 3D print 25% of every new building by 2025

Dubai is going all in on 3D printing. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, recently launched the “Dubai 3D Printing Strategy,” an initiative that will set up Dubai as a leading hub of 3D printing and technology by the year 2030.

Among the many sectors the initiative focuses on is the construction sector. Lighting products, bases and foundations, construction joints, facilities and parks, buildings for humanitarian causes, and mobile homes will all see a shift towards 3D printing. The goal is for 25% of every new building in Dubai to be 3D printed by 2025, based on Dubai Municipality’s regulations. This will begin in 2019, starting at 2%, and gradually increase to meet the goal by 2025.

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According to the Dubai 3D Printing Strategy, 3D printing technology will cut construction costs by between 50% and 70% and labor costs by 50% to 80%. It will also reduce waste produced in construction operations by up to 60%.

Other major sectors the initiative will focus on are the medical products sector and the consumer products sector. By 2025, the Dubai 3D Printing Strategy believes the 3D printed consumer products market will be worth 2.8 billion AED (about $762 million) and the 3D printed medical products market to be worth 1.7 billion AED (about $462 million).