Qatar Unveils a 360° Rotating Hotel Powered by Nature
- Kaitlyn Nicholas
- May 23
- 2 min read
A new hospitality concept is being developed off the coast of Qatar; a floating, rotating hotel designed to operate entirely off-grid. The project, led by Hayri Atak Architectural Design Studio (HAADS), integrates renewable energy systems, waste management, and water recycling into a circular structure that completes a full rotation every 24 hours.
The hotel’s circular form, inspired by oceanic vortexes, is engineered to rotate slowly, providing guests with varying sea views throughout the day. This movement is facilitated by a dynamic positioning system—commonly used in maritime vessels—that maintains the structure's orientation using thrusters and propellers. The rotation not only enhances the guest experience but also contributes to the hotel's energy generation strategy.
The structure is designed to be mobile, allowing it to be relocated to different coastal areas with suitable water currents. Access to the hotel is available via a 140-degree floating pier, boats, or a helipad situated on the pier.
The hotel aims for zero energy loss and waste. It employs 55 Vertical Axis Wind Turbine and Umbrella (VAWTAU) modules, each capable of generating up to 25 kW of electricity by harnessing wind currents resulting from temperature differences between land and sea. The vortex-shaped roof is designed to collect rainwater, which, after treatment, is used for irrigation and other non-potable purposes. Additionally, seawater is purified for use within the hotel, and wastewater is treated to prevent environmental harm.
Waste management includes systems for separating and processing organic waste into fertilizer for the hotel's landscaping needs. These integrated systems support the hotel's goal of operating without reliance on fossil fuels.
The hotel encompasses 152 guest rooms, each featuring a private balcony to offer uninterrupted sea views. A central 700-square-meter lobby serves as the core of the structure, illuminated by natural light through the transparent roof. Amenities planned for the hotel include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a spa, gym, sauna, beach club, and a mini-golf course.
Launched in March 2020, the Eco-Floating Hotel is still in the planning phase, with feasibility and technical studies underway to evaluate how the project can be successfully built and operated. The design team is working closely with specialists across different fields to finalize plans, with an expected opening in 2025. Once complete, the hotel is intended to serve as a prototype for sustainable and mobile hospitality developments.
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