Sharjah: Al Noor Island and Butterfly House Entry Ticket

Introduction
If you’re exploring the United Arab Emirates beyond Dubai and Abu Dhabi, a visit to Sharjah’s Al Noor Island is a delightful choice. While many travelers rush to the big cities, this island offers a peaceful escape filled with natural beauty, captivating art, and fascinating butterflies. Based on user reviews and detailed descriptions, this experience promises a gentle blend of relaxation, visual delight, and family-friendly activities.

What We Love About It
First, the stunning views of the Khalid Lagoon provide a perfect backdrop for a leisurely day. Second, the butterfly house, with over 20 exotic species fluttering around, adds a magical touch to the visit. Third, the art installations and lush meadows bring a creative and peaceful atmosphere that feels unexpectedly inspiring in such a small space.

One thing to consider is that the butterfly house itself is relatively small, which may disappoint butterfly enthusiasts expecting a large or extensive garden. Nonetheless, it’s a charming experience for most visitors, especially families looking for a relaxed outing.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a mix of nature, art, and light-hearted fun in a scenic setting—perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers wanting a break from the more commercial parts of the UAE.

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Key Points

Affordable price point at $14 per person offers good value for a day of varied experiences.
Family-friendly environment with dedicated children’s play areas and lush surroundings.
Beautiful views of Khalid Lagoon complement the island’s attractions.
Limited butterfly house size noted by some as a minor drawback, but still a highlight.
Open daily from 9 AM to 11 PM, with the butterfly house open until 6 PM.
Includes access to art installations, café, and playground but excludes meals, souvenirs, or transport.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Looking for more options in Sharjah? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Location and Accessibility

Al Noor Island is located right next to the Al Noor Mosque along Buhairah Corniche Road, making it easy to reach if you’re exploring Sharjah’s waterfront. The island itself is a short boat or walk across a bridge from the mainland, offering a scenic route to the entrance. Once there, you’ll find a well-maintained, tranquil area that’s perfect for a relaxed stroll.

Entrance and What’s Included

Your ticket grants you entry to the entire island, including the Butterfly House, art installations, children’s playground, and the on-site café. There’s no need to buy additional tickets unless you want souvenirs or extra food and drink. The overall cost of $14 is quite reasonable, especially considering the range of sights and activities included.

The Butterfly House: A Small but Captivating Space

The Butterfly House is the star attraction for many visitors. With over 20 species fluttering freely, it offers a glimpse into a delicate world of color and movement. Some reviewers have mentioned that it is smaller than they expected, which might be a slight letdown if you’re hoping for a sprawling butterfly garden. However, the quality and diversity of butterflies make it a worthwhile stop. Expect to spend around 30-45 minutes here, especially if you’re keen on photography.

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Art Installations and Lush Meadows

The island features contemporary art pieces strategically placed amidst the greenery. These installations add a creative touch, encouraging visitors to see the island as an open-air gallery. The lush meadows and tropical foliage create a peaceful environment, perfect for relaxing walks and family photos.

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Family and Kid-Friendly Features

Youngsters will enjoy the dedicated children’s playground, which is surrounded by vibrant flowers and greenery. As one reviewer noted, it’s “nice for kids,” with enough space and fun elements to keep them happily engaged. The overall vibe is safe and inviting for families, making it a great outing spot for a half-day adventure.

Food and Refreshments

The island’s café offers a cozy spot to grab a snack or drink, ideal for recharging after explorations. Since meals and beverages aren’t included in the ticket, bringing water and perhaps a small picnic could be smart, especially on hot days when hydration is key.

Timing and Best Visits

Open from 9 AM to 11 PM daily, the island provides flexibility to visit either during the daytime or in the evening when the sunset colors the lagoon. The Butterfly House closes at 6 PM, so plan accordingly if butterflies are your main focus. Visiting early in the day can help you avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather.

The Value of This Experience

At just $14, the experience offers a lot for nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and families alike. The price covers a well-maintained environment with multiple attractions, making it a worthwhile addition to your Sharjah itinerary. While some may find the butterfly house small, the overall ambiance and views compensate for this. Plus, the inclusion of art and lush gardens makes the visit feel more like a curated experience rather than just a garden attraction.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One reviewer mentioned that they initially thought they only paid for the island, but the ticket covered both the island and the butterfly house, which they found “really crazy” (meaning a great deal). Others appreciated the scenic views, with one saying, “We loved the way the island’s greenery and art blended with the lagoons,” highlighting how the environment’s beauty is a major draw.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the island involves walking across uneven paths.
Bring a hat and sunscreen, especially if visiting during midday.
Use your camera to capture the butterflies and art.
Consider visiting early in the day for fewer crowds and better lighting for photos.
Remember the butterfly house closes at 6 PM; plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for families looking for a relaxed, colorful outing that combines nature, art, and play. Couples seeking a peaceful, scenic spot to unwind will also appreciate the quiet beauty of the lagoon and lush gardens. It’s a charming break from the more bustling parts of Sharjah or other UAE cities.

Those with an interest in contemporary art and photography will find plenty of inspiring setups, while kids will enjoy the playground and butterfly encounters. However, if you’re hoping for a large butterfly conservatory or extensive beaches, you might find this experience somewhat limited.

The Sum Up

In essence, the Al Noor Island and Butterfly House offers a peaceful, visually appealing escape for a modest price. While the butterfly garden might not be sprawling, it’s charming and well-curated, especially paired with the art installations and gorgeous lagoon views. The inclusive ticket makes it a convenient, budget-friendly choice for families and solo travelers alike.

It’s best suited for those who want a gentle outing that combines nature, creativity, and scenic beauty without the fuss of larger theme parks or crowded attractions. If you’re after a relaxing day with plenty of photo opportunities and a touch of whimsy, this experience delivers that and more.

FAQ

Is the ticket only for the butterfly house?
No, the ticket includes access to Al Noor Island itself, the Butterfly House, art installations, the café, and children’s play areas.

What are the opening hours?
The island is open daily from 9 AM to 11 PM, but the Butterfly House operates from 9 AM to 6 PM.

How much does the experience cost?
The entry ticket costs $14 per person, which covers all the included attractions and facilities.

Can I visit the island in the evening?
Yes, the island is open late, but if you want to see the butterflies, plan to visit before 6 PM.

Are there any transportation options included?
No, transportation to and from the island is not included, so plan your route accordingly.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, the island has dedicated play areas, and the butterfly encounter is ideal for kids and families.

Can I take photos of the butterflies?
Absolutely, the butterfly house is a popular spot for photography, so don’t forget your camera.

Are meals available on the island?
The café is available for drinks and snacks, but meals and beverages are not included in the ticket.

Is this experience good value for money?
Given the range of attractions and the scenic environment, many find the $14 ticket to be quite a good deal, especially for a relaxed, family-friendly outing.

Whether you’re after beautiful views, a touch of artistic flair, or a family-friendly outing, Al Noor Island and the Butterfly House offers a charming, budget-friendly day out in Sharjah.