When planning a trip to the UAE, most tourists focus on visiting Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Though these emirates are the most popular tourist locations in the UAE, there are many other interesting and beautiful experiences to be found in the other emirates. Al Noor Island Sharjah, for instance, embeds a unique ambience that is different from many other parts of the country. The destination is rapidly gaining popularity as a relaxing leisure recreational destination in the UAE. Read on to discover more about this fascinating Sharjah attraction.
About Al Noor Island
A beautiful natural location, Al Noor Island, opened in 2015, offering city dwellers a secure refuge from the daily routines and giving them a chance to escape to a peaceful natural setting. Since then, Sharjah's Al Noor Island has been a popular hangout for locals and visitors seeking to relax and spend quality time with friends and family in the company of nature. The attraction has received numerous awards including Best Leisure Architecture in Africa and Arabia 2016.
A lush oasis amidst the cityscape, Al Noor Island overlooks the Khalid Lagoon and offers several leisure activities and a world-class contemporary art scene. There is a lot to see on this small island, including beautiful sculptures, lovely butterflies, and walking along nature trails. A children's play area and a spacious reading arena are also available. The evenings are filled with vivid colours, relaxing sounds of water elements, and soothing music. The Al Noor Island entry gate is located next to the Al Noor Mosque, one of the most beautiful mosques in the UAE.
Al Noor Island Timings
The attraction is open from 9 am till 11 pm on weekdays and 9 am till Midnight on weekends. The timings change during the Ramadan months.
Things to do in Al Noor Island
Visit the Butterfly House There is a lot to admire at the Butterfly House, an impressive piece of modern architecture. Its golden shining canopy attracts your attention even before you witness the butterflies. Several star-shaped metal trellis wraps the attraction, creating a stunning design and when the sun shines on it, the play of light and opaque metal adorns the inside walls into beautiful murals made out of shadows. Inside the pavilion, you will find yourself amid tropical jungle wilderness with over 500 different butterflies flitting around. There is also a gift shop and a fantastic café at the attraction.
Spend time at Literature Pavillion
The Literature Pavillion on Al Noor Island would definitely make you want to pick up a book just to spend some time in its tranquil, spacious resplendence. The exquisite decor is eye-catching and has plush sofas, and spaces inscribed in elegant Arabic writings. The sound of a fountain in the background, along with soothingly gentle music, will put you in a trance where nothing will disturb your peace of mind. Here in the Literature Pavillion, make yourself comfortable and do some reading, or simply pause to keep your mind at ease.
Admire the art sculptures and serene landscapes
Al Noor combines the elements of nature, art, and creativity harmoniously. Visitors will find manicured landscapes sprinkled with unique art sculptures and installations on the island. The awe-inspiring sculptures on the Island were constructed by a team of renowned artists and sculptors whose work stands out in the gorgeous natural setting. The iconic Torus, Fossil Rocks, and OVO artwork are just a few of the many installations found on the island. As these installations give simple renditions of materials in abstract art, marvel at the grandeur and craftsmanship of metallic finishes, illusionary light play, skilled creativity of wood, and much more. There's nothing quite like being surrounded by unspoiled nature. Simply take a deep breath and let the freshness of the surroundings wash over you. Around 7000 trees and plants may be observed in this location, allowing visitors to connect with nature.
Enjoy fun times at Kid’s Playground
A children's playground is also located on Al Noor Island, providing wonderful outdoor fun for children. This venue guarantees that children will have endless fun while spending quality time amid the verdant foliage. There are swings, climbing structures, fun slides, and tough ropeways that will keep the little ones occupied for hours. Guests can also unwind in a comfortable seating area as they keep an eye on the kids having a great time.
Indulge in a delicious meal at Noor Café Without pleasing your taste buds, no pleasant journey would be complete. Noor Cafe, nestled inside the majestic Butterfly House, offers a wide range of tantalizing flavours. Your taste buds will be enticed by delectable appetisers, delectable dishes and refreshing beverages. The café has a naturally lit, spacious seating layout where you can enjoy a delicious meal. At night, this delightful small nook transforms into a warmly illuminated ambience that sets the tone for a pleasant evening.
FAQs
How to reach Al Noor Island?
Al Noor Island is nestled in Khalid Lagoon, and is in close proximity to the majestic Al Noor Mosque on Buhaira Corniche Road. A pedestrian bridge from behind the mosque connects to Al Noor Island. Take a cab and get down at King Faisal Mosque, then walk for a few minutes to reach Al Noor Island.
How much does an Al Noor Island experience cost?
Al Noor Island Tour can cost around AED 35 per person and AED 20 for a child under the age of 12 years. Entry to Butterfly House is around AED 15 per adult and AED 10 per child. Al Noor experience with a meal at Noor Cafe will cost around AED 55 per person.
What is the best time to visit Al Noor Island?
Since Al Noor Island is an outdoor recreational attraction, it is best to visit this place during the cooler months of December, January, and February. You can easily spend at least 4-5 hours here, but the evening views of Al Noor are spectacular. At dusk, the island dazzles in vibrant neon lights and soft fairy lights which light up the foliage, installations, sidewalks into a glowing spectacle - a wonderful sight to behold!
Conclusion
Al Noor Island, off the coast of Sharjah, is a gorgeous island attraction in the Middle East where art, entertainment, creativity, and nature come together. This tiny island is packed with fantastic attractions like the Butterfly House and Literature Pavillion, as well as has an outstanding dining facility to satisfy your hunger. The attraction is a must-see for UAE visitors, especially families on vacation. Visitors can simply make a detour to Al Noor Island for a quieter and slower-paced leisure experience, which is difficult to find in Dubai and Abu Dhabi attractions. The easiest way to discover such hidden gems in the UAE is to include them in your trip itinerary along with a few other prominent emirates to gain a complete perspective of the UAE.
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