The future is here: UAE buildings to be 3D printed

Future buildings in the UAE are to be 3D printed, Khaleej Times has learnt.
According to Eng Munira Abdul Kareem, manager of the Ministry of Infrastructure Development's Project Execution Department, the department is geared up to adopt 3D printing technologies in the future.
"All the buildings to be built in the future by the ministry across the UAE will be 3D-printed in line with the national agenda of the country and the UAE 2021 vision."
The ministry will organise over 20 workshops and launch many other initiatives to support the country's infrastructure development and boost sustainable development here, she added.
"Using 3D printing technology will cut construction costs by 80 per cent, and save up to 70 per cent of the time needed, and 50 per cent of manpower required."
These are apart from the incomparable flexibility of the aspired building designs, regardless of their heights and sizes, she explained. "The 3D technology is also beneficial in terms of less power consumption and harmful emissions which may only hit 25 to 30 per cent."
3D printing - according to some construction industry accounts - could reduce labour costs by 50 to 80 per cent and construction waste by 30 to 60 per cent, while also compressing the construction schedule from months to weeks.
"Seeking to corner this emerging market, firms have used or proposed the use of 3D printers to build novel structures ranging from high-rise villas to disaster-relief shelters to research outposts on Mars," Abdul Kareem pointed out.
The ministry is also planning to introduce new innovative school building designs in the future, Abdul Kareem stated. "We want to build smart schools as per the latest international standards adopted in modern schools worldwide."
Lecturing on innovation keys, Eng Azza Sulaiman, an FNC member, said the concept must be observed in all government departments, and even become a lifestyle. "The Innovation Week is an indication to the quantum leaps the UAE has made and how our prudent leaders care for our past, present and future, as well as our prosperity and welfare."
- ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com