Qatar has officially launched the world’s largest 3D printed construction project, setting a new benchmark in sustainable infrastructure and educational innovation. Spearheaded by UCC Holding in collaboration with the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), the initiative involves building 14 public schools, including two massive 3D printed structures—each spanning 20,000 square meters, totaling 40,000 square meters, which is 40 times larger than any previously completed 3D printed building.
To execute this unprecedented scale, UCC Holding partnered with COBOD, a Danish leader in 3D construction printing, commissioning two custom BODXL printers—each measuring 50m x 30m x 15m, roughly the size of a Boeing 737 hangar. These printers are the largest of their kind globally and enable the creation of complex, organic architectural forms that traditional methods cannot replicate.
The schools are designed as two-storey buildings on 100m x 100m plots, with curved, dune-inspired walls reflecting Qatar’s desert landscape. This parametric design is made possible by the geometric freedom of 3D printing, allowing for cost-effective and visually striking structures.
Over the past eight months, a dedicated team of architects, engineers, and material scientists conducted 100+ full-scale test prints at a trial site in Doha, developing climate-adapted concrete mixes and custom nozzles for precision printing. In May 2025, the team completed intensive training with COBOD engineers, covering printer operations, layering strategies, and live quality control.
Beyond design, the project delivers significant environmental and operational benefits. 3D printing reduces raw material waste, minimizes concrete usage, and cuts carbon emissions. On-site printing lowers transport needs and accelerates delivery timelines. Night-time operations further enhance concrete performance while reducing dust and noise pollution.
The initiative aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030, reinforcing the country’s leadership in sustainable development and advanced construction technology. Completion is expected by the end of 2025, positioning Qatar as a global pioneer in scalable, eco-friendly educational infrastructure.
