Their own words from their website really sum up Noor Island well – “A microcosm of modern vision and Arabic inspirations, the Island offers the best mix of recreation, art, education and entertainment for the entire family.”
Noor Island is situated in Khalid Lagoon and is yet another of Sharjah’s nature spots where you can just completely forget that you’re in the middle of a built-up city. It boasts a lush landscape with a wide variety of plants and habitats including a small meadow of long grasses and a cactus garden. There are several impressive Silk Floss trees dotted around along with a variety of species which have been saved and planted on the island. Whilst walking through the gardens, enter the maze and try to find your way out, admire the sculptures and art installations, wonder at some of the fossils such as the 35 million year old stone tree from Indonesia and the amethyst crystal from Brazil and the rock crystal, take a selfie in the golden egg-shaped sculpture or take a seat on the artistic benches and watch the many birds flying round the treetops. Once you’ve done all that, take time to relax in the Literature Pavilion with a good book or if you have children, head to the playground which has a stretch of ropes forming walkways, climbing walls, etc. There is also a trampoline walkway to bounce along (but it is currently closed for work).
Of course, a vital part of the island is the Butterfly House with 22 different species. Walk through the trees and see the butterflies fly around and they might land on you too. Search the stalks for caterpillars and see the different stages of pupae and cocoons in a special hanging area. If you visit in the morning, you might see a butterfly emerging from its cocoon. If you go later in the day, you’ll see butterflies already emerged hanging out to slowly open their wings and dry before taking flight.
There is also a cafe inside the Butterfly House structure with both indoor with a small activity area for children. The cafe also has outdoor seating.
It’s open until 6pm weekdays but stays open late at the weekend and the gardens are lit up in different colours making it seem even more like an enchanted island. It’s the perfect place to spend a few hours and just relax and forget the hustle and bustle of city life. It can also be booked for venues. What a great location for a wedding, birthday party or team-building event!
Noor Island has won several prestigious international awards and The Butterfly House has won multiple international awards for Architecture and Design and you won’t be disappointed.
Admission to the island is 35 dhs (20 for children 3-12) and 15dhs (10dhs for children) to the Butterfly House (Combined ticket available for 2 for 1 in The Entertainer). There are various other activities with extra charges such as Yoga at Sunrise (ladies only), Junior Butterfly Keeper, Skywatchers after sunset. See their website for more details.
The entrance is next to Al Noor Mosque on Buhairah Corniche and there is plenty parking. Have fun!
Why I Love Sharjah! 