Qatar Starts Construction of World’s Largest 3D Printed School Building Project

01 October 2025: Qatar has started work on the world’s largest 3D-printed building project, two futuristic public schools, each spanning 20,000 sq. mtrs., for a combined 40,000 sq. mtrs. The schools are nearly 40 times bigger than the largest 3D-printed structure built until now.

Project is a partnership between UCC Holding and Ashghal (Qatar’s Public Works Authority), utilizes two enormous, custom-built BODXL 3D printers from COBOD International (Danish company known for construction-scale 3D printing). The work began in June 2025, aims to showcase innovative construction, reduce waste and carbon emissions and full 14-school complex is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025. The two printed schools serve as a pilot for expanding digital fabrication in the region.

The schools’ designs take inspiration from Qatar’s desert landscapes. Their curved forms mimic the shape of sand dunes. These shapes are difficult and costly to build using conventional methods, but 3D printing allows greater design freedom. Before starting of construction work, UCC’s team conducted over 100 trial prints using a smaller BOD2 printer. These trials helped develop concrete mixtures suited to local conditions.

The project aims to reduce its environmental impact. 3D printing uses less concrete than traditional construction and produces less waste. On-site printing also limits the need for transport, which can reduce emissions and improve logistics. These factors support faster construction and lower the overall carbon footprint.