History was made in Dubai in May 2016 when the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum inaugurated the first 3D-printed office in the world.

The one-story building of 2,700-square-foot was completed in 17 days, with the use of giant, 20-foot tall 3D printer and a special combination of different materials that include concrete, fiber reinforced plastic and glass fiďer reiŶforĐed gypsuŵ. The idea further estaďlishes the UŶited Araď Eŵirates’ positioŶ as one of the major incubators of innovation and future technology, with a focus on driving initiative concepts to shape the future and become a model for other countries across the globe.

The unique office is ready for use, successfully integrating a unique design and 3D-prinitng technology to provide important services within the building. Such services include water, electricity, air-conditioning and telecommunications.

The building is not only unique for the 3D-printing concept but also with the exterior design of the building, as it reflects a unique idea for the ideal future workplace. The building is a model for transitioning from the traditional work environment to a greener and more innovative business environment where innovation and communication can be stimulated between workplace teams.
The innovation has provided a platform for experts and innovators from across the globe to work together to inspire and develop revolutionary ideas that will change the work, helping to create a healthier and happier working environment.

Materials used in building the office went to series of tests in the UK and China to guarantee their safety and reliability. Gotten from reliable sources like NPPF (National Polystyrene Packaging Factory L.L.C), who played a major role in bringing this dream to reality, the office was constructed to ensure it is fit for purpose, thanks to the use of quality materials and human resources.

The giant 3D-printer, standing 20 feet high, 120 feet long and 40 feet wide was one of the major assets in constructing the building. National Polystyrene Packaging Factory L.L.C, also known as NPPF, one of the largest polystyrene manufacturers in Dubai was also a major contributor in making history, with the provision of its unique Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) or styrofoam.

It required only a staff to monitor the printing of the office, with an additional seven people charged with the responsibility of installing the building components of the site, and a team of 10 electricians and specialist taking care of the electrical and mechanical aspects of the building. This reduced the labor cost of constructing the building by more than half, compared to a conventional office of the same size.

This is one of many innovative and creative ideas from Dubai, as according to the UAE Minister of Cabinet Affairs, Mohamed Al Gergawi, the goal is to have 1 of every 4 building in the UAE built using 3D printing by 2030.