The world’s first 3d-printed mosque spanning an area of 5600 square metres has been completed within six months.
Located in Al-Jawhara in Saudi Arabia, the project was spearheaded by businesswoman Wajnat Abdulwahed who leads real estate development company, Fursan Real Estate.
For the build, three Chinese-made 3D concrete printers from Guanli were used. The company manufactures an array of gantry robotic arm concrete printers. It was reported that 3D printed concrete was used for non-load bearing elements only.
The speed of construction of the mosque has surpassed a similar project announced for Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, but this is expected to be complete in 2025.
The building’s design integrates natural light and takes into account the King Salman Urban charter, its religious purpose, and the cultural heritage of Hejazi architecture while presenting these elements in a contemporary format.
The iconic building is part of Saudi Arabia’s transition towards innovation throughout the built environment by 2030. Other notable structures en train for the country are the planned stadium in Qiddiya City and the construction of the Jeddah Tower.
Designed by Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, work recommenced on the tower in 2023 after a five-year hiatus and is set to become the world’s tallest skyscraper at 1000 metres high, 180 metres higher than Dubai’s Burj Khalifa.
About the author
Desi Corbett
Desi is our weekly news journalist and the editor of Concrete in Australia magazine for 10 years. She has been heavily involved in all forms of engineering since 2013; part of a 30-year writing career across a range of subjects and media.