Sharjah celebrates a decade of light as Al Noor Island turns 10

Over the past decade, Sharjah has strengthened its global reputation as a capital of culture, beauty, and human connection.

Among its most iconic destinations stands Al Noor Island, a living reflection of the emirate’s vision to blend art, ecology, and design into one inspiring experience.

Developed by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), Al Noor Island opened in 2015 as a tranquil retreat where art meets nature.

Today, it celebrates 10 years of enriching Sharjah’s landscape and identity, welcoming over one million visitors to its 45,000-square-metre sanctuary in Khalid Lagoon.

Created with an investment of Dhs80 million, Al Noor Island has become a landmark of creativity and sustainability.

Its architectural harmony, cultural programming, and environmental stewardship have earned it 8 international awards, including Best Leisure Architecture in Africa and Arabia from the International Property Awards, the German Design Award, and TripAdvisor’s “Best of the Best” for three consecutive years.

Each accolade reflects Shurooq’s commitment to transforming Sharjah’s public spaces into places of inspiration and discovery, where visitors engage with beauty, culture, and the environment in equal measure.

At the heart of the island stands The Butterfly House, designed by Austrian artist André Heller. The structure’s flowing glass form is home to over 20 butterfly species from across the world, including the Morpho Peleides, Giant owl or Caligo Memnon, Great eggfly or Hybolimas Bolina, Siproeta Stelenes, etc. Experts care for each species, ensuring a thriving ecosystem under controlled conditions that mirror tropical habitats.

Inside, visitors can relax at Noor Café, surrounded by lush greenery and soft natural light. The café’s design, inspired by the rhythm of the island, creates a sense of calm and connection between guests and the surrounding landscape.

Al Noor Island is also an artistic experience.

Along its walkways, nine permanent installations by Emirati and international artists invite reflection and imagination.

Highlights include David Harber’s “Torus,” which mirrors the sky and trees; Chris Wood’s “Flutter,” inspired by butterfly migration; and Azza Al Qubaisi’s “The Swing,” shaped from palm leaves and stainless steel in tribute to the UAE’s maritime heritage. When evening falls, the 3.5-kilometre Noor Boardwalk transforms into a glowing path of light and colour.

Lanterns, bridges, and ambient displays illuminate the island, linking water, sculpture, and vegetation in an ever-changing play of reflection.

Beyond its art and architecture, Al Noor Island is a celebration of Sharjah’s environmental values.

More than 70,000 trees and plants grow across the island, including native ghaf and sidr, desert rose, acacia, and international species such as olive and Bismarckia palms.

Every corner has been designed to support biodiversity, conserve water, and create shaded areas for people and wildlife.

For children, the Maze Garden and nature-inspired play areas offer a world of exploration and discovery.

These spaces encourage curiosity, creativity, and an appreciation for the outdoors.

Since its opening, Al Noor Island has hosted over 500 events and educational programmes, ranging from art workshops to sustainability sessions. It continues to play a central role in Sharjah’s cultural identity, serving as a space where families, artists, and visitors come together to learn and create.

As it enters its second decade, Al Noor Island remains one of Sharjah’s most cherished destinations, symbolising the emirate’s vision for a future where art, nature, and humanity coexist in balance.

Al Noor Island its place among the top 10 attractions in the Middle East by winning the prestigious “Best of the Best” title for 2024 on the leading travel-review platform TripAdvisor.

TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award winners are uniquely chosen by millions of travellers worldwide, who provide their real and unbiased reviews or opinions on destinations, activities, and experiences.

“Best of the Best” is the highest honour and the winners are among the top 1% of listings on TripAdvisor.