World's 1st 3D-printed Mosque to Be Established in Dubai

Dubai will build the world's first 3D-printed mosque in line with the directives of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

Workers will begin construction of the 2,000-square-metre mosque will be built in Bur Dubai next October and will welcome 600 worshippers early in 2025.

Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) noted that it will take four months to complete the 3D printing of the building's structure, in addition to another 12 months to fully fit it out with the appropriate facilities.

Ali Al Suwaidi, director of IACAD's engineering department, noted the printer will mix raw materials and a special mix of concrete.

“The cost is 30% higher than building the mosque in the normal way because it is the first of its kind in the world,” Al Suwaidi told a press conference. “We expect the cost will be similar in the future with 30 years building guarantee.”

The IACAD is coordinating with Dubai Municipality to get final approvals on the design.

Hamad Al Shaibani, Director General of IACAD, mentioned: “Using 3D printing will reduce the construction material wastes. It is friendly to the environment. The mosque represents the vision of our wise leadership.”

In August 2021, bin Rashid issued a decree to regulate the use of 3D printing in the construction industry in Dubai, to promote the emirate as a regional and global center for technology.