House of Wisdom’s Al Jazri FabLab offers makerspace for innovators, students inspired by futuristic technologies

• Cutting-edge tech including 3D printers, laser and vinyl cutting machines
• Workshops on using facilities for children, amateurs and professionals
• Experts on the lab floor offer assistance to those looking to build prototypes

Many of us have read about or heard of the cutting-edge 3D printers and how they have simplified and accelerated the manufacturing process, minimised material waste and ensured the completion of wide-ranging fabrication tasks with maximum efficiency. From construction to engineering, artificial design, dentistry and even jewellery-making, 3D printing has revolutionised the productions for a wide range of industries and businesses.

However, not all of us have seen the power of these advanced technologies and the limitless possibilities for innovation and creativity they present.

Curious tech enthusiasts need to look no further as the Al Jazri FabLab in Sharjah’s future library, House of Wisdom (HoW), brings an exciting opportunity to makers, innovators, students and entrepreneurs of all ages to deep dive into the world of 3D printing technology and lots more within its state-of-the-art space.

Named after Arab scientist, engineer and alchemist Badi Al Zaman Al Jazari, this makerspace aspires to fill its visitors with the same kind of passion and genius that led Al Jazri to inventions in the 12th Century that were way ahead of his time.

The awe-inspiring architectural design of the FabLab features glass enclosures, and instantly sparks the imaginations of curious learners excited to see their ideas come to life.

Be it a fascinating journey into the world of cutting-edge technologies that are shaping the future of fabrication or fulfilling our desire to learn ways to leverage these technologies to become a more effective problem solver and maker, the experts at the FabLab will empower both visitors and workshop participants as young as 8 years with a deeper understanding and appreciation of technology, while enabling them to use it to transform our world for the better.

This stat-of-the-art ‘technology playground’ boasts the latest fabrication equipment – 3D printers, and laser and vinyl cutting machines to Computer Numerical Control tools, which can be booked for experimenting with a range of fabricating activities like building wood structures, plaster moulds, printing labels on garments, making accessories, and more.

That’s not all. Those into computer and software programming can turn to the futuristic machines at the FabLab that produce electronic chips powering a whole range of products that run on technology – from simple electronic devices to complex robots and everything in between.

The regularly held workshops that target a range of interests and age groups are a big draw at this makerspace. From multidisciplinary training in digital fabrication, prototyping, and allied technologies like design, coding and robotics, a variety of workshops are organised in keeping with HoW’s overarching mission to offer various means of learning in open and accessible spaces and inspire innovation.