The “first 3D-printed office in the world” has been unveiled in Dubai, marking a milestone in the development of 3D technology and paving the way for architects to build across different typologies in less time and for less cost.

According to its developers, the building is the first of its kind prepared for actual use. Key services, such as electricity, water, telecommunications and air-conditioning have all been integrated into the 250sq m (2,700sq ft) structure.

The building was constructed on the premises of Emirates Towers using a special mixture of cement and materials designed and made in the UAE and the US. A 20ft (6m) high, 120ft (36.5m) long 3D-printer created the different sections of the building, which were connected to form a secure arc structure.

The full model took 17 days to print, after which the internal and external designs were adopted. Once all the pieces were ready, the office was installed on-site by a group of seven people in just two days. Ten electricians and specialists were responsible for mechanical engineering.

"We implement what we plan and we pursue actions, not theories,” said Dubai’s ruler and UAE prime minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. “The rapidly changing world requires us to accelerate our pace of development, as history does not recognise plans, but achievements.”

The creation of the office is a result of Dubai’s recently launched 3D Printing Strategy, which aims to harness the technology “for the service of humanity and promote the status of the UAE and Dubai as a leading global centre of 3D printing by 2030.” The technology will be used to construct parts of Dubai’s forthcoming Museum of the Future.

Al Maktoum commented: “We see this office project as a case study that will benefit regulators as well as research and development centres at the regional and international levels on real application of 3D printing technology.

“We are documenting this experience and building on it to take advantage of the most important lessons, which will serve as reference points to take this technology to new levels."

The sheikh argued that the competitive advantages of 3D printing, in terms of lower costs and faster delivery, mean it will play a significant role in establishing the buildings, leisure destinations and cities of the future.

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FEATURE: Technology – 3D printing