Al Noor Island

Al Noor Island, Sharjah Overview

Al Noor Island is located on the Khalid Lagoon in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. It is a serene oasis in the middle of Sharjah city which features a Butterfly House, a book pavilion, a cafe, a playground, and modern art. One can find a 3.5 km long Broadwalk and a stretch of white lights installed in the gardens which bring the island to life during the night time.

It was opened in 2015 for the public, and since then it has been known to receive several awards. It was named the Best Leisure Architecture in Africa and Arabia in 2016 and the IF Design Award 2017 and German Design Award 2018. Besides this, the Butterfly House has also won the WAN Metal Architecture Award in 2016 for innovatively presenting a unique design. The aptest time to visit the island would be from 09:00 AM to 11:00 PM or 04:00 PM to 07:00 PM.

Things to Do On the Island

Literature Pavilion: If you are looking for an ideal peaceful place to pen down your thoughts or read a book, you can go to the Literature Pavilion. The environment is blessed with a light musical background with the soothing sounds of a fountain, which will make you relax and forget your life stresses.
Kids Playground: This was made majorly for young visitors to the Island. This place ensures to provide endless fun where children can spend quality time AMidst the trees and plants. There is also a comfortable seating area where one can sit comfortably.
Butterfly House: This award-winning Butterfly House is home to around 20 exotic species living in their natural habitat. It is the Island’s primary attraction, which allows butterflies of all sizes, shapes, and patterns to grow in the ergonomically designed settings.
Art Sculptures: A team of celebrated artists and sculptors has created the awe-inspiring pieces on the Island. The grandeur of masterpieces can be touched and felt in the seamlessly scenic natural and cultural setup.
Landscape: This space is home to around 7000 trees and plants which will allow being connected with nature and its diversity. Besides this, the architectural designs compliment the landscape of the Island. You will find 250 years-old olive trees, bottle and umbrella-shaped trees, medicinal plants, towering cactus, and ornamental grass. Also, do not forget to stay back in the evening to see the lighting of the site synchronise with the flowers. This site is a perfect combination of nature and technology.
Noor Cafe: This cafe is located inside the Butterfly House, which offers a wide range of snacks, refreshing drinks, and a naturally-lit surrounding with 500 butterflies.

Tips

It is better to visit Al Noor Island in weekdays as you can expect a lesser crowd when compared to weekends as it is a popular place for local people and foreigners to be visited.

How To Reach Al Noor Island

Al Noor Island is located at Buhaira Corniche Road in Khalid Lagoon, which is opposite Al Noor Mosque. One can take the pedestrian bridge leading to Al Noor Island from behind the Mosque. Otherwise, you can take a cab to the location, but you will have to park the car or taxi near King Faisal Mosque and then walk from there.