Dubai will soon be home to the world’s first 3D-printed mosque. The emirate’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) has commissioned the building for Bur Dubai, shown in this rendering. Work is set to begin at the end of this year.
Renowned for its lavish architecture and progressive designs, Dubai is poised to achieve another remarkable feat by introducing the world’s first 3D-printed mosque. The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department of the Government of Dubai (IACAD) has unveiled plans to erect a mosque utilizing cutting-edge 3D printing technology, where a concrete mixture is layered using this innovative method.
Expected to host 600 worshippers across a sprawling 2,000 square meters, construction of the mosque is scheduled to commence by the close of 2023, with completion anticipated in the initial quarter of 2025.
Ali Al Suwaidi, director of IACAD’s engineering department, said the printer will mix raw materials and a special mix of concrete.“The cost is 30 per cent higher than building the mosque in the normal way because it is the first of its kind in the world,” Mr Al Suwaidi told a press conference on Thursday. “We expect the cost will be similar in the future with 30 years building guarantee.”
The IACAD is co-ordinating with Dubai Municipality to get final approvals on the design.Three workers will operate the 3D robotic printer which will print two square metres an hour. The mosque marks the latest step in Dubai’s 3D Printing Strategy, which is a global initiative to harness the technology for the good of humanity and position the city as a leader in the field by 2030.
Hamad Al Shaibani, Director General of IACAD, said Dubai is a pioneer in using 3D printing technology and sustainability that will reduce carbon footprint.
“We opted for 3D printing in constructing the mosque due to its novelty and efficiency, offering time and resource savings compared to conventional methods,” elucidated Al-Halyan Al-Suwaidi. While the IACAD has withheld the identity of the construction company involved, the project demands extensive printing facilities and intricate design specifications.
The forthcoming 3D-printed mosque is poised to stand as a testament to Dubai’s innovative ethos, embodying yet another architectural marvel. As Dubai continues to pioneer advancements in 3D printing, the city aims to utilize this technology in fabricating 25% of its structures by 2030.