The Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) proclaimed the activation of the Strategic Alliance for 3D Printing, initiated by the Crown Prince of Dubai H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also the President of the Executive Council of Dubai and Member of the DFF Board of Trustees.

The activation took place during a virtual workshop focusing on 3D printing technology and its role in improving the different sectors of the economy in the UAE and worldwide.

The virtual workshop attracted over 50 government officials, CEOs, industry leaders, academics, and experts from ministries, government agencies, global organisations, start-ups, and universities in the UAE and abroad, engaging both the government and private sectors.

Dubai Future Foundation Deputy CEO Abdulaziz Al Jaziri stressed that the Strategic Alliance is a global network of government agencies, legislative bodies, global technology firms, as well as research and information centres that exploit 3D printing technology to support different sectors of the economy.

The Dubai Future Foundation will work to accelerate the adoption and implementation of this initiative by enhancing local and global partnerships between the government and the private sector. The Foundation is developing synergies with legislative bodies and technology firms, providing logistical and engineering support, and compiling a comprehensive report to raise awareness and increase the use of 3D printing technology in various critical fields, in addition to studying potential opportunities available in different industrial and economic sectors, Al Jaziri noted.

As the first order of business, in line with a holistic strategy focused on four pillars, the workshop addressed future measures needed to improve the position of the 3D Printing Strategic Alliance. These foundations include policy and regulatory legislation, the shaping of an creative and entrepreneurial environment, the promotion of research and development, and the provision of opportunities for finance and investment.

During the workshop, for each pillar, specialised sub-committees were set up to define the roles and obligations of stakeholders within the Strategic Alliance and to discuss avenues of collaboration to identify potential measures and strategies required to accelerate positive results for each pillar.

Sheikh Hamdan launched the 3D Printing Strategic Alliance. A first-of-its-kind step within the region and also the world, the Strategic Alliance aims to make a comprehensive network of state agencies, analysis centres, and 3D printing firms in the UAE, and throughout the world.