3D printing technology changing the landscape of construction industry

Sajjad Ahmad, Deputy Business Editor

The utilization of 3D printing technology is changing the landscape of construction industry as it hugely reduces the amount of construction material waste and also more environmentally friendly than traditional methods.

In alignment with the UAE’s visionary decree No. (24) of 2021 issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to regulate the use of 3D printing in the construction sector in Dubai, which supports the Emirate’s strategic target to ensure that 25% of its buildings are constructed using 3D printing technology by 2030, 3DXB GROUP has been formulated in the UAE as the only regional company to offer a complete 3D building solutions for the construction sector.

Speaking to Gulf Today, Badar Rashid AlBlooshi, Chairman of 3DXB GROUP said, “We decided to take the initiative for the utilization of 3D technology in the construction sector. We are the only company providing a fully integrated 3D solution to the industry. We are witnessing huge interest for our technology from the construction sector.”

He added, “We are working side by side with authorities in Dubai and getting tremendous support from the government to spread more awareness regarding the 3D technology in real estate sector.”

On the group’s current projects, AlBlooshi added, “We started the construction of our first villa in the second quarter of 2023 which is now ready for handover to the owner.

“Currently, we are at a stage of final touches of the designing of 12 more villas and the construction work will start in 2024.”

He added, “Our company also participated in the launching of the world’s first 3D-printed mosque in Dubai as the emirate is bringing more innovations to its architecture and construction.

About the company expansion plan, he explained, “We are approached by some regional companies in the Middle East as the trend of using 3D technology is growing in the region.”

“We also have plan to enter the North American and EU markets as their construction sectors offer tremendous opportunities for 3D technology.”

“The main benefits of 3D printing technology are: faster to build, cheaper to build and greener to build. Currently, our mix is partially using recycled material of construction waste, and our target is to increase it to 50% for the next year,” he said.

About 3DXB Group’s commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices, AlBlooshi said, “Sustainability is at the core of 3DXB’s business model.”

“We believe that sustainability and construction can go hand in hand. At 3DXB, we strive to minimize the environmental impact of our 3D printing solutions in various ways.”

He added, “To contribute to sustainable construction practices, 3DXB incorporates various initiatives into its 3D printing solutions. The company prioritizes material sourcing from local and eco-friendly suppliers to reduce transportation emissions and support the local economy. Additionally, our 3D printers are designed with energy efficiency in mind, utilizing cutting-edge technologies to minimize power consumption during the printing process.”

AlBlooshi added, “The precision printing methods of 3DXB’s printers minimize material wastage, ensuring that only the required amount of material is used. Moreover, the printers’ modularity allows for easy upgrades and replacements, extending their lifespan and contributing to a circular economy. The incorporation of remote monitoring capabilities enables real-time analysis and optimization of printing processes, further saving time and resources.”

 “3DXB’s technology not only drives sustainability but also delivers substantial cost savings for construction projects in the Middle East. Rapid construction enabled by 3D printing reduces labor costs and project timelines significantly. Furthermore, precise material deposition minimizes wastage, optimizing material usage, and consequently reducing expenses. The durability of structures built using 3DXB’s technology leads to reduced maintenance costs over the long term,” AlBlooshi concluded.