Al Noor Island
Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Sitting within Khalid Lake, Al Noor Island is a lush nature-and-art sanctuary in the heart of Sharjah. Visitors wander boardwalks through shady palms, walk amid butterflies, relax on white sands, and enjoy art installations, reading retreats, and evening light shows—all in a family-friendly haven that feels far from Sharjah’s high-rises and highways.
The basics
Visitors pay an admission fee to explore Al Noor’s gardens, beaches, and artistic and nature-themed displays. Attractions include a stunning Butterfly House, a calligraphy-decorated Literature Pavilion, a scenic 2.2-mile (3.5-kilometer) boardwalk, and regular events, including illuminated night trails, stargazing, and yoga workshops.
To save time once you’re in the UAE, it’s worth booking island passes online to skip organizing them on the day. Passes provide fixed-duration access to the island and let you roam its boardwalks, gardens, and attractions independently. Other options include ticket-and-transfer combos with return transfers from Sharjah and Dubai hotels and other locations that eliminate any transport hassles.
Things to know before you go
Al Noor Island is great for nature and art lovers, gardening buffs, photographers, and peace-seekers of all ages.
Bring sunscreen, plus food and drink to enjoy in the designated picnic spots.
Al Noor is largely accessible for both wheelchairs and strollers.
On-site amenities include a café, rope playground, and restrooms.
How to get there
Al Noor Island is reached via a pedestrian bridge from the northeastern shores of Khalid Lake, near Al Noor Mosque. Getting here is easiest by tour, cab, or hire car: If driving, follow Sharjah’s Corniche Street (S110) north past the mosque and make a U-turn where signposted to the car parks facing the island. The nearest bus stop is King Faisal Road Jumbo-Sony 2, about a 14-minute walk away.
When to get there
Al Noor is typically open 9am-11pm weekdays and until midnight on weekends. The Butterfly House has shorter hours, from 9am-6pm daily. Be aware that times can vary, so it’s worth checking beforehand. The island is usually quiet on weekday mornings, while Sundays and from mid-afternoons to early evenings through the week are busiest. Dusk is a great time for a visit as you’ll catch sunset views from the island’s western side.
Butterflies at Al Noor Island
The major attraction at Al Noor Island is its Butterfly House. Resembling a perforated ribbon of gold, this light-flooded haven is home to more than 500 butterflies from around 20 different species. Visitors wander through the house as these wonderful creatures flutter around them, and there are on-site specialists who can explain their life cycle, from caterpillars and chrysalis to stunning, flying wonders.
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