Abu Dhabi is about to get 10,000 times more magical, and maybe I’m just imagining things but I think you can already feel the flutter in the air. Abu Dhabi will soon be home to the regions very-first immersive butterfly sanctuary! Just picture thousands of butterflies flitting past you, tropical greenery all around, and creatures you’ve only seen in nature documentaries. It’s going to be called Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi, and trust me – this won’t be your average garden stroll. I have all even more incredible details where that came from, so keep reading to find out.
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Where It’s All Happening
The Butterfly Gardens will be nestled right next to The National Aquarium at Al Qana, one of the capital’s most popular destinations for family fun. This exciting new attraction was officially announced just last week, during Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, and it’s already causing a buzz! (or should I say flutter?)
Step Into A World Of Over 10,000 Butterflies
Inside the gardens, you’ll find more than 10,000 butterflies from around the globe, living in lush, tropical landscapes that feel like you’re stepping straight into a rainforest. And before you ask, no these winged created won’t be shunned behind any reinforced glass only for you to look at. Instead, they’ll flutter freely around you, creating a completely immersive and interactive experience that brings nature right to your finger tips.

Exploring Two Worlds
The sanctuary is made up of two climate-controlled bio-domes, each one inspired by a different part of the world. The Asia dome will be home to species like bearcats, koi carp, and fascinating Asian insects. Meanwhile, the Americas dome will introduce you to two-toed sloths, caiman crocodiles, and colourful insects native to the Americas. Every creature and plant has been carefully chosen to match their real-world habitats, giving you a peek into how life works in these vibrant ecosystems.
More Than Just Beautiful – It’s Educational Too
Butterfly Gardens will also be a place to learn, explore, and understand the magic of the natural world. The experience includes interactive exhibits, live feeding zones, and hands-on installations perfect for kids. And it was all developed with the help of biologists and conservation experts! You’ll even get to witness the entire life cycle of a butterfly, and possibly catch a glimpse of one emerging from its chrysalis?
A Mission to Inspire & Protect
According to General Manager, Paul Hamilton, this won’t be another tourist attraction – it’s a nature reserve with a purpose. “Our goal is to create an environment that mirrors the butterflies’ natural habitats, where they can truly thrive,” he explained. “We want visitors to connect with nature on a deeper level and understand how everything in our ecosystem is linked.”
Save The Date!
Expect Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi to opens its doors at Al Qana around September, 2025. Get ready to walk among butterflies, soak up rainforest vibes, and reconnect with the wonders of nature. Stay tuned to Gulf Buzz, as we’ll be the first to update as you when the official date is announced!