Dubai to build world’s first villa using robots

Dubai Municipality has launched a global challenge to construct the world’s first residential villa built entirely using robotic construction systems.

The project will be delivered through a local and international consortium led by Dubai Municipality and comprising more than 25 advanced technology companies and academic institutions.

The initiative aims to develop scalable models for future construction, improving productivity, sustainability and build quality, while positioning Dubai as a hub for advanced construction technologies.

The robotic villa project will be implemented in partnership with Zacua Ventures and the Würth Group, with the participation of construction robotics companies alongside local contractors and engineering firms.

The announcement was made during an event marking the activation of the Construction Innovation and Research Centre (04 ConTech Valley) in partnership with Expo City Dubai, following the signing of an agreement to establish a dedicated centre for innovation and research in construction materials, systems and technologies.

The centre aims to support the development of next-generation construction solutions, urban systems and future city infrastructure.

During the event, Dubai Municipality also launched the Global ConTech Report in collaboration with Zacua Ventures. The report analyses the accelerating global adoption of construction technologies and projects that investments in the sector will exceed $30 billion by 2033, with an annual growth rate of 17.5 percent.

The report identifies labour shortages as one of the most pressing challenges facing the global construction industry, driving increased investment in technologies such as robotics and additive manufacturing. It also highlights the most prominent technologies shaping the sector, including artificial intelligence, robotics, infrastructure technology and prefabrication.

Dubai Municipality also launched the ConTech Working Group, in collaboration with Dubai Chambers, bringing together government entities, developers, contractors, technology providers, investors and researchers to support innovation and efficiency across the construction sector.

Marwan Ahmed Bin Ghalita, Director-General of Dubai Municipality, said that the adoption of advanced construction technologies represents a cornerstone of Dubai’s vision to develop a more efficient, sustainable and resilient construction sector, guided by a comprehensive, future-focused construction technology strategy.

WAM