Barwa Real Extate Group has announced plans for a new flagship property – Oryx Island – off the coast of Doha that will house five floating hotels to accomodate spectators of the World Cup 2022.

The pedestianised tourism island, which draws inspiration from the ecosystem in Qatar, will be located in the midst of the Arabian Gulf and near the new Hamas International Airport.

The project is at the concept design stage and is expected to take seven years to complete once construction has began.

The resort is surrounded by the Gulf waters offering visitors a sense of privacy and will feature three five-star hotels each overlooking a private beach with views of the Wesy Bay and Doha Corniche

Hotels in the plan include the Topical Health Club Hotel, where residents can enjoy yacht rental services, and the Spa Hotel.

Oryx Island will also feature five floating hotels, to be located temporarily to the west of the development during the World Cup for extra capacity.

The island will also feature an aqua park, a commmercial avenue featuring upscale shops and restaurants and an open-air theatre to be used for watching national and international events such as the World Cup games.

Also in the proposal is a Maritime College with associated Pearl Hunting School to teach visitors about marine life and traditional pearl hunting methods.

The pedestrian only island will not use traditional means of transportation, instead electrical vehicles, water taxis, ferries and private boats will be available to visitors.

The project will provide three different types of permanent accomodation consisting of villas and condos on a waterfront. The first type will include 135 private villas, each covering an area of 1,300 sq m (13,993sq ft), six rooms and a garden. The second type of villa covers an area up to 1,700sq m (18,300sq ft) each overlooking the private beach.

Barwa said: “Plans are intended to reflect the ambitions of the young state of Qatar, striding towards upgrading the Qatari community, and pushing it ahead to the ranks of other developed nations.”