Saudi Arabia Embraces 3D Printing Technology for Construction Work

Under Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s construction sector is being transformed and revitalized, and 3D construction printing (3DCP) technology can be leveraged to accelerate the process. This disruptive technology is already being employed in the Kingdom. In fact, Saudi Arabia was among the first countries in the Middle East to use it for construction work.

3D construction printing (3DCP) technology offers many advantages in comparison to traditional building methods. First, it cuts down the time to build a house by more than half. With traditional methods, it takes four to six months to build a house, but it can be done in just a few weeks by using 3DCP technology. It is now even possible to build a complete house within 24 hours. However, that’s far from being the only benefit of employing 3DCP technology.

It is estimated that 3DCP technology can be used to build a house for half the cost. It makes the process of building cheaper in more than one way. Being able to build houses almost autonomously, 3D construction printers require a much smaller workforce. A house can be constructed from scratch by just three workers. Given that traditional construction methods involve more manual labor, they are also more expensive.

The second advantage of using 3DCP technology comes from the fact that 3D printers are incredibly precise, which means that they use exact amounts of construction materials for every part of the house and reduce wastage. The technology can decrease the cost of construction materials by a factor of ten. Not only does less wastage of construction materials make the method cost-efficient, but it’s also good for the environment.

What’s more, houses made with 3DCP technology have higher durability. This means that such buildings may not require as many repairs as the ones constructed with traditional methods. 3DCP technology also reduces long-term costs by providing better insulation which puts a significant dent in electricity bills.

3DCP technology also gives builders more flexibility and accuracy, so they can construct structures that are better in terms of complexity, practicality, aesthetics, and sustainability. When it comes to sustainable construction practices, 3DCP technology is effective at reducing general construction waste. As the majority of construction work is carried out by one machine, the construction process reduces the number of on-site accidents.

Both new and established construction companies are also benefiting from 3DCP technology. It makes it easier for them to tap into new markets, position themselves over their competitors, and boost their brand image. 3DCP technology even allows companies to cater to people who are concerned about the waste of construction materials and the sector’s impact on the environment.

Besides Saudi Arabia, other countries like Singapore and the UAE, have adopted this technology as well. By 2027, 3DCP technology is likely to have a market size of USD 280 million. It can play a pivotal role in Saudi Arabia’s drive under Vision 2030 to transform the sector and provide residents with an increasing number of high-quality houses.