< Previous50 AUGUST 2025 THE LAST WORD AI AND ROBOTICS COULD TRANSFORM BUILDING COSTS IN UAE The UAE’s construction industry is at the forefront of innovation. But like many sectors, it faces pressures such as rising costs, labour availability, and the need for more sustainable practices. As demand for effi cient, cost-eff ective construction grows, PropTech has emerged as a solution that could potentially halve construction costs in the UAE. With its ability to streamline processes, reduce waste, and speed up construction, PropTech promises to dramatically reshape the future of building in the country. THE PROJECT MANAGER OF THE FUTURE AI is reshaping construction in ways that were unimaginable. Rather than being a mere tool, it’s becoming the backbone of project management. From initial design to project completion, AI optimises every step of the process. A great example is the use of AI algorithms to predict potential delays related to weather, labour availability, and material supply. Predictive capabilities allow for smoother workfl ows by anticipating potential issues before they become problems, helping the project stay on track despite the complexities of building some of the world’s tallest and most complex structures. In the UAE, where construction timelines are often tight and the stakes are high, AI’s ability to identify and address issues in real-time makes it an indispensable tool in ensuring projects are completed on schedule and within budget. CONSTRUCTION AT THE SPEED OF MACHINES While the use of robots in construction might have seemed like something out of a futuristic movie, it’s already happening in the UAE. Robotics is being used to accelerate construction, enhance precision, and reduce the human toll on labour forces. For example, the Jaibot, a semi- automated robot used on construction sites, is helping with overhead drilling tasks, ensuring accuracy and reducing manual labour. Schindler’s Robotic Installation System (R.I.S.E) is also installing lifts, demonstrating the capabilities of automation in high-rise construction. 3D-PRINTING With its ambitious goals for innovation, the UAE is steadily leading the charge in adopting 3D printing technology. According to Dubai’s 3D Printing Strategy, the city aims to have 25% of its buildings constructed using 3D printing by 2030. This technology can reduce construction costs by up to 90% and labour requirements by up to 70%. The shift to 3D printing also helps in creating a more sustainable, effi cient process that aligns with the UAE’s long-term vision. DRONES FOR SITE SURVEYING Drones are used to capture aerial views and gather precise data, quickly assessing a site’s topography, providing real-time feedback, and even monitoring the progress of large projects. The ability to map the land with such accuracy not only speeds up the initial phases of construction but also ensures that any discrepancies in the building process can be caught early. Drones also play a pivotal role in site inspections, reducing the need for manual checks that are time-consuming and can be dangerous for workers. The growing use of drones in the construction sector is enabling faster decision-making, improved safety, and enhanced project oversight. Visit Construction Week Online to read the full article Hamad Al Abbar is the Managing Partner of LMD CW_Aug2025_50_The Last Word_13655474.indd 5028/07/2025 19:51www.glaze.ae/ MARBLE | ONYX ONYX | QUARTZQUARTZ | | PRECIOUS STONEPRECIOUS STONE | TRAVERTINETRAVERTINE | | SINTERED STONESINTERED STONE | PORCELAINPORCELAIN Surface Solutions, Designed By Nature Nature Untitled-9 102/08/2025 21:12Next >