The Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities of Dubai has announced the construction of the world’s first 3D-printed mosque.
The mosque can accommodate 600 worshipers and the work will be completed in 2025, with three workers managing the construction process.
The project is in line with the vision and directives of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
It will be situated in Bur Dubai and will have a floor area of 2,000 square meters.
Fully built using 3D technology, the structure of the mosque will take about four months to complete and an additional 12 months to add appropriate facilities, IACAD said.
According to IACAD’s director Ali Al Suwaidi, the 3D robotic printer will be operated by three workers, and will print two square metres per hour. The printer will also mix raw materials and a special concrete mix.
“The cost is 30 percent higher than building the mosque in the normal way because it is the first of its kind in the world,” said Al Suwaidi in a statement, adding that cost will be similar in the future with a 30-year building guarantee.
The project is part of Dubai’s 3D Printing Strategy, which is aimed at using technology for the good of humanity thus positioning the city as a global industry leader by 2030.
“Building the first mosque in the world to be built with 3D printing technology is a distinguished project in the world built with this feature, and this work is a translation on the ground of the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed,” IACAD director-general Hamad Al Shaibani said.
