Qatar starts work on ‘largest’ 3D-printed schools

• New tech reduces emissions
• Reduces waste, cuts carbon
• Completion expected late 2025

A Qatari company has commenced work on what it says are two of the world’s largest 3D-printed buildings.

The 3D-printed schools project is a venture between Qatar-headquartered UCC Holding and the state-backed Public Works Authority (Ashghal).

The project involves the construction of 14 public schools, including two built using 3D printing technology.

Each of the 3D schools will have a built-up area of 20,000 sq m. This will be “40 times larger than the largest 3D-printed building constructed anywhere in the world to date”, UCC Holding said in a statement.

The two schools are designed as two-storey buildings.

UCC Holding has commissioned Denmark-based Cobod to supply two printers.

• Nakheel’s 3D concrete printing project seen as catalyst
• Qatar records $137m budget deficit on lower oil income
• OQEP deals are part of Omani job creation drive

Compared with conventional construction methods, building via 3D printing reduces raw material waste and minimises concrete usage, cutting carbon emissions. Moreover, on-site printing reduces transport needs, mitigates supply chain risks and accelerates project delivery.  

The schools are expected to be completed by the end of 2025, the statement said.

No financial details were disclosed.