Al Noor Island Sharjah: A magical and mystical world!
Al Noor Island in Sharjah has grown into a popular hub for residents and tourists looking to unwind in the family-friendly emirate. Stepping foot into this island is like being transported to an entirely different world that lures you with attractions that inspire the imagination. Here’s everything you need to know about this wonderful place.
AL NOOR ISLAND SHARJAH – AN OVERVIEW
From the phenomenal lighting displays and exceptional art sculptures to the beautiful fluttering butterflies and the seclusion of the Literature Pavilion – Al Noor Island Sharjah has tons to offer anyone who wants some time away from city life.
It is designed to resemble a sanctuary where people can relax and unwind. Every aspect of this place fosters a deeper connection with your surroundings and nature. When you visit Al Noor Island, it’s like you have entered a world of enchantment. And for those who live in nearby areas such as Al Majaz and Al Qasimia, this family-friendly destination is only 10 minutes away by car.
The peaceful ambience enhanced with the omnipresent sound of waves crashing at the shore soothes your mind. The meditative music that continuously plays in the background only adds to your overall experience at the island.
As far as the attractions are concerned, The Butterfly House takes the prize with its unique setting that allows you a chance to observe butterflies up close. The playground and ample seating arrangement make it a great place for families.
Ready to find out more about this gorgeous island? Let’s go!
ATTRACTIONS AT SHARJAH AL NOOR ISLAND
THE BUTTERFLY HOUSE
Home to more than 500 butterflies belonging to 20 different exotic species, the Butterfly House on Al Noor Island is the biggest attraction. This dreamy space is located inside an ergonomically designed, nature-inspired structure that retains humidity and allows natural light to enter the butterfly haven.
Covered with plants, the butterfly house provides the perfect sanctuary and camouflage to make it’s residents feel right at home. Some of the most precious winged beauties at the Butterfly House include the pink rose, emerald swallowtail and the tailed jay.
ART & SCULPTURE
Al Noor Island in Sharjah is all about celebrating nature, art and creativity. This is evident in every aspect of the Island, including its bespoke art sculptures and installations. There are six different installations across the island, each seamlessly integrated with its cultural and natural environs.
Marvel at the grandeur and artistry of the Torus with its metallic finishes and illusionary light play. Let the egg-shaped OVO leave you awestruck with its skilful manipulation of wood, water and LED lights. Locate the meaningful yet simple rendition of stability and progression in the linear, abstract art of the Columns. Or just lose yourself in the veracity of the rock-solid trio of the Fossil Rocks.
LITERATURE PAVILION
Cheerful colours, plush cushions and poetic verses penned down in beautiful Arabic calligraphy – the Literature Pavilion in Al Noor Island will certainly inspire the inner poet in you. The tasteful décor is only the beginning. As you walk into the pavilion, the sound of a fountain in the background coupled with soothingly soft music transports you into dreamland.
Make yourself comfortable and get some reading done, or maybe put your mind to work and pen down ideas and expressions. The solace and serenity here will get your creative mojo rolling.
KIDS PLAYGROUND
One of the popular kid-friendly attractions in Al Noor Island, the playground guarantees quality outdoor fun for kids. With swings, slides, climbing frames and tricky ropes, there is plenty to keep little ones busy for hours.
The abundance of trees and benches around the area make for excellent shaded seating as you monitor your child. This facility at Al Noor Island makes the place entirely family-friendly with something to do for everyone.
LIGHTING
Noor Island is often termed as enchanted. While its lush landscapes, awe-inspiring art installations and abundance of nature play their part, it is actually the bright display of LED lights at night that truly make the place seem whimsical.
As the sun goes down, the island comes alive with bright neons, twinkling fairy lights and luminescence that lights up trees, walkways, art installations, buildings and even the bridge. Catching this stunning display is one of the unmissable things to do in Al Noor Island.
The most dazzling display of all is the Gleaming Meadows – a flower bed made from 1,200 illuminated fibre-glass blooms that change colour in perfect synchronisation. This display of harmony between technology and nature is just magical and you need to see it to believe it.
LANDSCAPE GARDENS
There is nothing better than finding yourself amid uninterrupted nature. Just breathe and feel the surroundings engulf you in their freshness. Al Noor Island in Sharjah is home to more than 70,000 plants and trees.
Each green element on the island has been carefully selected to create landscapes as unique as Noor Island itself.
From towering cacti to bottle-shaped trees and variety of medicinal plants to an olive tree that has lived well over two centuries – the flora here is worth all the admiration it receives.
NOOR CAFE
For those of you who would like to grab a quick bite while touring through Al Noor Island, the Noor Café has just the menu to cater to that.
The naturally lit cafe is spacious and tranquil with a healthy selection of refreshing beverages and delicious snacks. At night, this quaint little place transforms into a luminarium with bright interiors and warmly lit furniture to set the mood for a great evening.
THINGS TO DO AT AL NOOR ISLAND
Whether you are a nature buff or a culture vulture, there are plenty of things to do in Al Noor Island, making it a great weekend activity for locals as well as tourists.
BY THE BAY
Enjoy a tranquil meal by the lagoon at Al Noor Island, while you appreciate the majestic views of Al Majaz Waterfront. A guided island tour and nature walk are included in the package.
- Ticket price: AED 180 for standard | AED 220 for premium
- Timings: Monday to Sunday, 09:00 am – 10:30 pm
SELF-GUIDED TOUR
Want to go exploring the island on your own? Then all you have to do is sign up for the self-guided tour. It is a chance to wander off in the meadows and catch of glimpse of delicate butterflies.
- Ticket price: AED 35 for adults | AED 20 for children aged 3-12 years
- Timings: Weekdays, 09:00 am – 11:00 pm | Weekends, 09:00 am – 12:00 am
SKY WATCH
Interested in stargazing and astronomy? Al Noor Island allows you to explore the night sky with its powerful telescopes and their resident expert astronomers.
- Ticket price: AED 75
- Timings: Weekdays, Sunset till 11:00 pm | Weekends, Sunset till 12:00 am
NURTURE NATURE
Sign up for this once-a-month workshop at Al Noor Island to learn how to cultivate your own garden. The sessions have no minimum age requirements and offer great opportunity to learn about gardening. It’s even better if you have a garden in your home.
- Ticket price:
- AED 100 for young gardeners
- AED 120 for indoor plant workshop
- AED 120 for germination from seed to plant
- AED 120 for the Japanese Art of Kokedama (Moss Ball Technique)
- AED 120 for grow your own tea garden herbs
- Timings: Every session lasts 2 hours
YOGA AT SUNRISE
Only a few places in Sharjah can compete with the calm and solace of Al Noor Island. Using these traits to the best of its advantage, the island conducts yoga classes for women every month on the second Saturday.
- Ticket price: AED 50
- Timings: Monday to Sunday, 08:00 am – 09:00 am
AL NOOR ISLAND TICKET RATE AND PASSES
The Al Noor Sharjah entry fee is AED 20 whereas you can also get passes to get access to multiple attractions at the island.
STANDARD PASS
This pass allows you to spend time with the butterfly experts who will gladly answer the curious questions of your little ones. It also includes entry to the island and a self-guided tour of the Butterfly House with an educator.
- Price: AED 50 per adult | AED 30 per child
- Timings: 1 hour
EXPLORER PASS
This Al Noor Sharjah ticket price includes a special explorer kit to help you set off on your own adventure. The kit includes a map of the island so you can plan a self-guided tour on your own! Explorer’s Pass includes entry to the island and guided tour of the Butterfly House.
- Price: AED 75
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHERE IS AL NOOR ISLAND LOCATED?
It is located on Buhairah Corniche Road, Khalid Lagoon in Sharjah.
WHAT ARE THE AL NOOR ISLAND TIMINGS?
The opening hours for Al Noor Island vary from one activity to another. Usually its open from 08:00 am.
HOW TO REACH AL NOOR ISLAND?
Al Noor Island enjoys a peaceful location on Khalid Lagoon across the Al Majaz waterfront. There is a pedestrian bridge behind the Al Noor Mosque that leads you to the island.
CAN I HOST AN EVENT AT AL NOOR ISLAND?
Yes, you definitely can! The exclusive booking starts from AED 12,600 (without catering). You can even throw a birthday bash here which includes access to arts and crafts activities for kids. For booking and price-related queries, you can visit the island’s official website.
WHAT ARE THE CONTACT DETAILS FOR THE ISLAND?
You can contact the island on +971-6-506-7000 or +971-56-992-9983.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN SHARJAH?
Some of the best things to do in Sharjah include visiting the Museum of Islamic Civilisation, exploring the famous Al Noor Mosque and hiking through Wadi Lasal.
And on that note, we conclude our guide to the wonderful Al Noor Island. It offers plenty of recreational activities and sights to keep the whole family occupied. And if you love nature and peaceful surroundings, this place should be on your list of places to visit in Sharjah.
Looking for more options to explore the cultural emirate of UAE? Why not consider these free things to do in Sharjah which include historical places, parks and some not-to-be-missed tourist attractions?
Want to know all about the best Sharjah tourist destinations? Our guide will point you in the right direction! In case you’re looking for more family-friendly places to visit in the city, don’t miss out on the Sharjah Safari Park.
The cover image credit goes to the official website of Al Noor Island.
