Development of Lighting Unit Designs Using the Concept of Biomimicry in Hotels of the Arab World

Abstract

This study aims to develop lighting unit designs using the concept of biomimicry in hotels across the Arab world, given the importance of lighting and its impact as a vital element on the quality of the surrounding environment, energy consumption rates, and the enhancement of guest experiences amid existing climatic and environmental challenges. The research presents an exploration of how to derive a biomimetic lighting unit inspired by natural systems, highlighting its effect on guest experience in terms of aesthetic values, as well as its functional impact on investors (hospitality providers) from an economic perspective, including energy consumption, manufacturing costs, and operational costs. Furthermore, it offers practical recommendations for designers. The study employed the descriptive-analytical survey method to assess the extent to which hotel environments-both investors and guests—accept the proposed design in terms of aesthetics, efficiency, and economic feasibility. Data were collected through an online questionnaire, applied to a purposive sample across five selected Arab capitals: Riyadh, Cairo, Dubai, Doha, and Rabat. Five hotels were chosen from each city, with two participants per hotel (a hospitality provider and a guest), resulting in a final sample size of 50 participants. Through statistical analysis, the study reached a main conclusion: the proposed biomimetic lighting design enhances sustainability, contributes to reducing both manufacturing and operational costs, and increases guest satisfaction-thereby supporting the marketing process of the hotel sector. Based on these findings, the researcher recommends the integration of such designs within hotels.