Sharjah surprises you in the best possible ways. Tucked away on the Khalid Lagoon island, Al Noor Island is one of those rare places that genuinely delivers on every promise. Nature, art, culture, and light all collide here in the most beautiful way. Families come for the butterfly house and playground.
Couples come for the peaceful lagoon waterfront views. Photographers come for this Island night lights that transform the entire island after dark. Solo visitors come simply to breathe. Whatever brings you here, one thing is certain — you won’t leave disappointed. This complete guide covers everything you need to know before your visit.
What Is Al Noor Island Sharjah?
Al Noor Island Sharjah is a world-class leisure destination spread across 45,470 square meters. It sits on Khalid Lagoon island, connected to the mainland by a beautiful pedestrian bridge. Since opening in 2015, it has won global recognition. The IF Design Award 2017, German Design Award 2018, and Best Leisure Architecture in Africa and Arabia 2016 are just a few of its prestigious accolades.
This island isn’t just a park. It’s a carefully crafted experience that blends nature, culture, and creativity into one peaceful escape. Every corner tells a story. Every path leads to something worth discovering. Families, photographers, nature lovers, and culture seekers all find their own version of magic here.
| Detail | Info |
| Location | Khalid Lagoon, Sharjah, UAE |
| Size | 45,470 square meters |
| Opened | 2015 |
| Awards | IF Design Award 2017, German Design Award 2018 |
| Entry Fee | AED 35 adults / AED 20 children |
| Timings | 9 AM – 11 PM weekdays / 12 AM weekends |
Al Noor Island Attractions You Simply Cannot Miss
Butterfly House – The Star Attraction
Walk into the Butterfly House Sharjah and you instantly enter another world. Over 500 butterflies from 20 exotic butterfly species flutter freely around you. The structure itself is a masterpiece — ergonomically designed, humidity-controlled, and filled with natural light. It even won the WAN Metal Architecture Award in 2016 for its groundbreaking design.
Don’t rush this experience. Let the pink rose butterfly land near you. Watch the emerald swallowtail glide gracefully between plants. The tailed jay dances through the air like a living jewel. A cafeteria sits inside the Butterfly House too, so you can take a break without leaving this magical space.
Butterfly House Ticket & Timings
| Detail | Info |
| Opening Hours | 9 AM – 6 PM daily |
| Adult Entry | AED 15 |
| Children Entry | AED 10 |
| Guided Tour | Available with Standard Pass |
Art, Sculptures & the Literature Pavilion
Al Noor Island is home to six stunning art sculptures installations created by world-renowned artists. Each piece integrates seamlessly with the island’s natural surroundings. Here’s what you’ll find:
- Torus — Dazzles with metallic finishes and illusionary light play
- OVO — Egg-shaped masterpiece combining wood, water, and LED lights
- Columns — Clean abstract lines representing stability and progression
- Fossil Rocks — A trio of ancient-looking formations grounded in raw natural beauty
Then there’s the Literature Pavilion Sharjah — a quiet corner that many visitors call their favourite spot on the island. Cheerful colours, plush cushions, and Arabic calligraphy cover every surface. The soft sound of a fountain plays in the background. You can sit here, read a book, write your thoughts, or simply breathe. This place gently pulls you away from the rush and reminds you to simply enjoy the moment.
What Makes the Literature Pavilion Unique?
The Literature Pavilion stands apart from anything else on the island. It isn’t just decoration — it’s a functioning creative sanctuary. Writers, readers, and dreamers gravitate here naturally. The calligraphy-adorned walls spark curiosity. The peaceful atmosphere sparks creativity. If you visit this place and skip this pavilion, you’ve missed one of its finest gems.
Landscape Gardens & Light Installations at Night
The gardens in Al Noor Island aren’t ordinary. Over 70,000 plants and trees fill the island with life. You’ll find 250-year-old olive trees standing tall alongside bottle-shaped trees and umbrella-shaped canopies. Towering cacti share space with rare medicinal plants and delicate ornamental grass. There are even 300 million-year-old crystal rocks scattered throughout the landscape. A 3.5-kilometre nature walk boardwalk winds through it all, connecting every corner of the island beautifully.
When the sun sets, everything transforms. Night lights of this Island turn this green paradise into a glowing wonderland. Trees shimmer. Walkways sparkle. Art installations pulse with colour. The most breathtaking display of all is the Gleaming Meadows fiber glass flowers — 1,200 illuminated blooms that shift colour in perfect synchronisation. It’s technology and nature holding hands. You truly need to see it to believe it.
Fun Activities for Every Type of Visitor
There is genuinely no shortage of things to do Al Noor Island offers to its guests. The stargazing telescope sky watch experience lets you explore the night sky with powerful telescopes and expert astronomers by your side. Priced at AED 75, it runs from sunset until 11 PM on weekdays and midnight on weekends. It’s a rare, immersive astronomy experience right in the city.
The Nurture Nature gardening workshop runs monthly and welcomes all ages. Sessions cover everything from indoor plant care to the Japanese art of Kokedama moss ball technique. Prices range from AED 100 to AED 120 depending on the session. The yoga sunrise sessions run every second Saturday of the month for women, starting at 8 AM and priced at just AED 50. Meanwhile, the By the Bay dining experience pairs a lagoon-side meal with a guided tour, starting from AED 180.
| Activity | Price | Timings |
| Sky Watch | AED 75 | Sunset – 11 PM weekdays |
| Nurture Nature Workshop | AED 100–120 | Monthly sessions |
| Yoga at Sunrise | AED 50 | Daily, 8–9 AM |
| By the Bay Dining | AED 180–220 | Daily |
| Self-Guided Tour | AED 35 adults | Weekdays 9 AM–11 PM |
Fun Things for Kids to Enjoy at Al Noor Island
Kids absolutely love this family-friendly island. The playground features swings, slides, climbing frames, and rope challenges that keep little ones busy for hours. Plenty of shaded benches sit nearby so parents can supervise comfortably. The Explorer Pass at AED 75 includes an explorer kit, island map, self-guided island tour, and a guided Butterfly House walk — making every child feel like a real adventurer.
Here’s what kids can enjoy at Al Noor Island:
- Playground with swings, slides, climbing frames and rope challenges
- Explorer Pass kit with island map and self-guided tour
- Guided Butterfly House walk with an educator
- Nurture Nature gardening workshop (no minimum age)
- Nature walks along the 3.5km boardwalk
- Shaded seating areas for parents throughout the playground
Explorer Pass for Kids – Is It Worth It?
Absolutely yes. The Explorer Pass gives children structure and excitement at the same time. The kit makes the visit feel like a mission. The guided Butterfly House tour adds educational depth. At AED 75, it offers exceptional value for a full, engaging experience that parents and kids both enjoy together.
Noor Cafe – Food & Views
You’ll find Noor Cafe tucked inside the island, offering stunning peaceful lagoon waterfront views alongside a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The menu features a healthy selection of snacks and refreshing beverages. The space itself is naturally lit, spacious, and wonderfully calm during the day. It’s the perfect pit stop between exploring attractions.
Come evening, the cafe transforms completely. Warm lighting takes over. The interiors glow softly. The furniture itself becomes part of the ambience. Sitting here at night with a drink in hand while watching the illuminated pathways outside — it’s one of those simple moments that stays with you long after you leave. Note that outside food is not permitted on the island, so Noor Cafe is your go-to dining spot.
Ticket Prices & Available Passes
The Al Noor Island entry fee is very reasonable given the quality of experience on offer. Standard adult entry starts at AED 35. Children aged 3–12 pay AED 20. Kids under 3 enter free. Various passes unlock additional experiences and better value for money.
| Pass Type | Adult Price | Child Price | Includes |
| Standard Entry | AED 35 | AED 20 | Island access only |
| Standard Pass | AED 50 | AED 30 | Island + Butterfly House guided tour |
| Explorer Pass | AED 75 | — | Kit + map + Butterfly House tour |
| Family Package | AED 135 | — | 2 adults + 2 children |
| By the Bay | AED 180–220 | — | Dining + guided tour |
| Sky Watch | AED 75 | — | Stargazing session |
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
The Al Noor Island opening hours run from 9 AM to 11 PM on weekdays. On weekends the island stays open until midnight. Fridays have slightly adjusted timings, opening at 2 PM and closing at midnight. The Butterfly House closes earlier at 6 PM daily regardless of the day, so plan your visit accordingly.
The best time to visit Al Noor Island is between October and April when Sharjah’s weather is pleasantly cool. During summer months, visiting after 6 PM is highly advisable to avoid the intense heat. Weekday mornings are the quietest. Sunday afternoons draw the largest crowds. Arriving at dusk gives you the perfect combination — golden sunset views followed by the magical night light display.
How to Get There & Parking Tips
Al Noor Island sits on Buhairah Corniche Road, Khalid Lagoon, Sharjah. The easiest way to reach it is via the pedestrian bridge behind the Al Noor Mosque bridge — a beautiful walk in itself. If you’re driving, follow Corniche Street S110 north past the mosque and make a U-turn where signposted. Parking near Faisal Mosque is your best bet, followed by a short walk to the bridge entrance.
Taking a taxi or ride-hailing service is honestly the most stress-free option. Parking can be tricky during busy periods. The nearest public bus stop is King Faisal Road Jumbo-Sony 2 — about a 14-minute walk from the island. The good news is that Al Noor Island is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it easy for all types of visitors to navigate comfortably.
Driving from Dubai to Al Noor Island
Dubai visitors are just 16 kilometres away from the island, roughly a 25-minute drive from Dubai International Airport. From Dubai, take Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road toward Sharjah, then follow signs toward Al Majaz and Buhairah Corniche. The drive is straightforward and well-signposted throughout.
Tips to Know Before You Visit
Knowing what to expect before you arrive makes your visit far smoother and more enjoyable. Book your tickets online before arriving — especially on weekends. Outside food is not allowed so plan accordingly. Wear comfortable shoes because the illuminated pathways at night stretch across 3.5 kilometres of boardwalk. Bring sunscreen if you’re visiting during daylight hours. A light jacket is useful during cooler winter evenings near the lagoon.
Photography lovers should arrive at dusk. The transition from golden sunset to full night illumination creates stunning visual opportunities. The Gleaming Meadows, the lit-up boardwalk, and the glowing Butterfly House all photograph beautifully after dark. For private events, the island offers exclusive bookings starting from AED 12,600 without catering — a truly unique venue for birthdays, corporate events, and special occasions.
What to Wear & Carry
Comfortable walking shoes for the 3.5km boardwalk
Light, breathable clothing in summer
Reusable water bottle
Sunscreen for daytime visits
Light jacket for winter evenings
Fully charged phone or camera
Nearby Attractions
Al Noor Island is just the beginning of what Sharjah has to offer. Once you’re done exploring the island, these nearby attractions are absolutely worth adding to your day out.
- Al Noor Mosque
- Al Majaz Waterfront
- Al Montazah Parks
- Blue Souq
- Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation
- Sharjah Safari Park
- Sharjah Aquarium
- Al Qasba Canal
- Sharjah Art Museum
Conclusion
Al Noor Island is more than just a tourist spot — it’s an experience that stays with you. From the fluttering butterflies and ancient olive trees to the glowing meadows and serene Literature Pavilion, every moment here feels genuinely special. Arrive at dusk to catch both the sunset and the night lights. Book your tickets in advance and give yourself at least three hours to truly soak it all in.
FAQs
Is Al Noor Island worth visiting?
Absolutely. The combination of nature, art, night lights, and family activities makes it one of Sharjah’s finest destinations.
Can I visit with toddlers?
Yes. The island is stroller-friendly and children under 3 enter free.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entire island is accessible for visitors with mobility challenges.
Does Al Noor Island Have a Dress Code?
Casual and modest clothing is required. Beachwear and revealing outfits are not permitted on the island.
Can You Eat at Al Noor Island?
Yes, Noor Cafe serves snacks and beverages on-site. Outside food and drinks are strictly not allowed.
What Facilities Are on Al Noor Island?
The island offers a cafe, children’s playground, restrooms, wheelchair access, art installations, and a butterfly house.
