Dubai Launches World’s First Certification Program for the 3D Printing Construction Sector

The additive manufacturing construction sector has been growing exponentially due to its fast completion time and lower labor costs, with projects cropping up all over the world. Concrete 3D printing in particular has seen marked development in its construction practices and research related to material uses and sourcing. With the 3D printing construction sector growing larger every year, and with more companies and technologies becoming involved, it makes sense that a certain level of standardization might eventually come into play. In the United Arab Emirates, the municipality of Dubai has taken that first step in what is considered to be the world’s first system for ‘certification and conformity’ grading.

The UAE’s new system of certification is set to standardize and streamline procedures within the 3D printing construction industry, while also attributing a series standard for the concrete mixes used in the city. The regulation takes into account the various steps and factors throughout the processes of the 3D printed concrete industry, which currently sees the most widespread use worldwide. From the quality of the raw materials to the efficiency of the machinery used in manufacturing, and even laying out operational standards for each step during the production process, the review process laid out is comprehensive.

3D printing concrete structures in action (Photo credits: MiCoB)

“The certification and conformity mark system for factories and entities operating in the field of 3D printing for construction has been comprehensively established in alignment with Dubai Municipality’s proactive vision.”  explains Dawoud Al Hari, Dubai Municipality’s Director-General, “This system embraces international best practices to provide exceptional services to both individuals and the community, thereby enhancing Dubai’s global reputation and aligning with Dubai Municipality’s strategic objectives outlined in Dubai’s 2030 Plan.”

In addition to setting a precedent in standardization, the city hopes that the program will help position Dubai as a regional and international hub for 3D printing technology, in line with previous initiatives. Thus allowing the city to continue to expand its research and operations with a larger base of participating organizations. The initial certification and quality control is to be conducted by the Dubai Central Laboratory, which has experience with evaluation, conformity auditing, and lab material testing to ensure the highest possible standards are met.

Not to come as a shock to existing companies, the Dubai Municipality is offering accessible resources to assist companies with their shift into compliance, as Alia Al Harmoodi, acting CEO of the Environment, Health and Safety Establishment of the Dubai Municipality explains, “In line with its efforts, Dubai Municipality included an integrated guide on its website featuring four chapters that cover the key requirements to be met by factories and entities engaged in 3D printing for the construction sector. The guide, which has a flexible and relevant design, sheds light on various methods and technologies of manufacturing concrete used in 3D printers, while also considering different components and specifications of materials used by companies.” For more information, visit the Dubai Municipality’s website HERE. 

A 2022 project which saw three separate projects in Oman: A 3D printed café, restroom, and fishing house. (photo credits: COBOD)

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*Cover Photo Credits: Dubai Municipality