Dubai Takes Steps to Be 3-D Printing Hub

The Dubai government teamed up with UL to host two-day workshops on 3-D printing, namely safety and responsibility, as part of the emirate's large-scale plan to become the 3-D printing capital of the world by 2030.

Sheikh Mohammed, vice president and prime minister of the UAE, and Emir of Dubai, detailed the plans for Dubai's future in 3-D printing.

"The UAE is presenting to the world today the first integrated and comprehensive strategy to exploit 3-D technology to serve humanity," he said, according to 3DPrint.com. "We have also framed practical plans and precise goals to turn the strategy into reality, the reality that will contribute to the progress and prosperity of the world, and help preserve our human heritage."

Together with the Crown Prince of Dubai and the Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, and Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed continued in his statement that the government is "driven by a deep understanding of the future needs," and that the plan is based on the launch of applications that can be used anywhere in the world.

"3-D printing, or additive manufacturing, will change the world in the years to come, offering huge steps forward in manufacturing, construction, medical care and many other sectors," said Hamid Syed, vice president and general manager for UL in the Middle East. "However, as with all new technology, it must be understood to be implemented safely. By understanding why the necessary training is important and what type of training individuals need, we can safely move this innovative technology in the right direction as it is is applied across different industries and applications."

The workshop covered the basic technology around 3-D printing, as well as different materials, processes and quality issues surrounding the industry.

"3-D printing technology is advancing rapidly across the world, and Dubai Police are committed to being forerunners in the 3-D generation by highlighting the world's best practices adopted in the public safety industry," Colonel Badran Al Shamsi, deputy director of the General Department of Training at Dubai Police, said, according to 3DPrint.com.