Escape from the hell of the desert to the cool and crystalline paradise in the heart of the Persian Gulf

According to CNN; By unveiling the Gewan Island artificial island and its unique walkway, Qatar has moved the boundaries of modern engineering and urban welfare to create an “artificial forest” equipped with an air conditioning system, to overcome the constant challenge of the excruciating summer heat in the Persian Gulf region. This project, built along the famous “Pearl” islands complex, hosts a 450-meter passage called “Crystal Walk” which, using advanced technologies, keeps the ambient temperature constant between 21 and 23 degrees Celsius throughout the year.

Even at the peak of midday summer heat, when the temperature reaches more than 45 degrees, it is possible for citizens and tourists to walk in the open air. The structure of this path consists of giant tree-shaped canopies decorated with more than 10 tons of crystals and not only block direct sunlight, but also provide part of the energy needed for the cooling system by using solar panels embedded in their branches. This bold innovation, which managed to hold two Guinness World Records for “Largest Air-Conditioned Outdoor Mall” and “Largest Interactive Light Roof”, is designed to change the lifestyle of desert cities, bringing people back from the closed spaces of malls to the heart of the streets.

In addition to the cooling system that pumps fresh air out through the vents embedded in the floor, 180 glass showcases are installed on the sidewalk level, which display works of art and cultural symbols, creating a visual and multi-sensory experience for passers-by. This island, which in the past was the only dock and construction site for nearby projects, is now divided into three luxury residential, commercial and tourism sectors and is set to become a new hub of luxury tourism in Doha by 2027 with the opening of five-star hotels and golf courses.

While a large part of Qatar’s capital is designed based on cars, this project with a human-centered approach has prioritized pedestrian spaces, beach cafes and a water transportation system to prove that even in one of the hottest places on the planet, it is possible to maintain the pleasure of being outdoors in all seasons of the year by relying on technology.