In 2021, the global 3D printing market reached a staggering valuation of 13,84 billion dollars. Experts and economists are predicting the industry to grow by 20.8% CAGR from 2022 to 2030. This rise is the result of the rapidly growing applications of 3D printing technology. Many countries like the US, Germany, and Japan are already jumping on the bandwagon.

In the same vein, Dubai, too, has carefully evaluated 3D printing and has developed strategies and visions to implement these. Dubai not only aims to be a serious competitor but also intends to become a market leader in the evolving industry. The upper echelons of Dubai Royalty aim to use 3D technologies for humanity's betterment while uplifting the UAE's global status.

Proactive Measures

Dubai royalty and bureaucrats have always prided themselves as proactive leaders and visionaries. They identified that the upcoming 3D printing industry would slowly but surely extend its tendrils into other sectors and significantly improve the manufacturing processes. Consequently, they are aiming to become a 3D manufacturing hub that is innovative and ushers the global manufacturing industry into an economic upturn.

In addition, they have already identified opportunities within their nation and beyond. So, the technology will be developed with a highly flexible template that can be applied by other nations as well. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum along with the Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, launched the ‘Dubai 3D Printing Strategy’ to catapult its 3D printing market to the zenith.

Vision 2030

The Dubai Future Agenda aims to achieve global leadership by adopting future innovations by the year 2030. The 3D printing trend will grow massively in the manufacturing and housing industry before becoming relevant in other fields, like art and culinary delights. These strategies aim to restructure global economies and add value upwards of billions of dollars. And taking the earlier proactive measure will enable Dubai to enjoy the lion’s share of this economy.

To begin with, 3D printing plans aim to reduce the construction time of buildings by great margins. 3D printing is already more efficient than traditional manufacturing processes. And, now, with improving technology, it will only enhance greater productivity.

Next, there will be a decrease in demand for unskilled labor. While it may sound counter-productive for the economy, it will save countless people from construction and manufacturing-related injuries.

One of the biggest goals of the agenda is to involve 3D printing in 25% of the buildings in Dubai by 2030. Gradually, the number will increase as global demand increases. Apart from decreasing construction costs and time, and boosting the overall profit margins, the waste generated from traditional construction processes will also reduce. This will, in turn, reduce the impact of toxic chemicals on the environment.

Beyond Construction and Manufacturing

While construction and manufacturing are the initial target sectors, the future of 3D printing is not limited to that. The benefits will soon be widened to the medical sector and consumer products. Growth cells will be utilized to create tissues for surgical uses. The advanced technology will be used to create hearing aids, polymer teeth, bones, and other surgical devices. The medical sector should see an influx of 3D-printed products by 2025, and the processes should be optimized by 2030.

Finally, the consumer will be targeted by household items, toys, and electronics. These will be comparatively easy to manufacture and distribute. They already have established distribution lines and factories; only the processes need to change. The consumer sector is expected to reach around Dh 3 billion by 2025.

The Foundational Pillars for 3D Printing Economy

The Dubai Agenda outlines the five pillars that will play a crucial role in upholding the 3D printing economy in the future.

  • The Legislative Pillar will create a regulatory framework for the utilization of 3D printing machinery and specifications for environmentally friendly materials.
  • The Infrastructure Pillar will focus on creating the facilities for future development and research into 3D printing technology.
  • The Talent Pillar will focus on acquiring top 3D printing talents and developers from around the world. Creating a cohesive and conducive working environment for them in Dubai will play a key role in furthering the advancement of 3D printing technology.
  • The Funding Pillar is self-explanatory as it focuses on locking down investments from investors, banks, private equity firms, and high-net-worth individuals.
  • The Market Demand pillar is responsible for advertising the products and driving up demand for tech worldwide. The services and technology will cost more during the initial days as the demand outmatches the supply. But eventually, the supply will catch up, bringing down costs and making the technology more accessible.


Conclusion

Currently, 3D printing can be found in bits and pieces around the world. For starters, Formula 1 teams have started manufacturing their carbon ceramic brakes using 3D printing. Contractors are offering pre-built 3D-printed houses that only need to be assembled at the site. And, in the medical field, start-ups are manufacturing prosthetics for amputees in high volume to make them inexpensive.

As the industry metamorphs, 3D printing is going to be a game changer in all vital sectors. We at 3DHub are excited to be a part of this revolution. We are currently the largest platform for everything 3D in the Middle East. We offer customized solutions for education, manufacturing, healthcare and hospitals, and various other sectors.

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