Dubai has issued its first construction licence for a private villa using 3D printing technology and locally sourced concrete.
The four-metre-tall structure will be printed in one session within the Al Awir 1 area of Dubai.
The villa is expected to be completed by October 2023.
Dubai’s 3D Printing Strategy 2030 aims to increase the percentage of implemented 3D printed buildings in the Emirate to achieve a minimum rate of 25% by 2030.
Mariam Al Muhairi, acting CEO of the Buildings Regulation and Permits Agency at Dubai Municipality, said: “Dubai Municipality has issued the emirate’s first construction licence for a private residence built with 3D printing technology.
“This project aims to encourage contractors, engineers, investors, and real estate developers to adopt and use technology in their building operations.”
She added: “The Municipality further offers support and facilities to monitor and control the usage of this innovative technology in building and construction, in line with the Dubai 3D Printing Strategy and Decree No. (24) of 2021 Regulating the Use of Three-dimensional Printing in Construction Works in the Emirate of Dubai, which aims at increasing the percentage of buildings implemented and printed using the 3D technology by no less than 25% by 2030.”
As it does not necessitate a huge number of personnel on site, 3D printing technology is faster and more accurate than traditional methods of construction – though using the novel technology is still expensive due to its hitherto low level of adoption.
Dubai Municipality launched a variety of technical activities specialised in 3D printing technology last year, including construction engineering consultancy activity, construction contracting activity, and manufacturing concrete for construction.
Image: guteksk7/Shutterstock
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