Abu Dhabi is set to introduce its first immersive butterfly sanctuary, The Butterfly Gardens, opening in September 2025. The announcement was made at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, a key event for the travel and tourism industry.
The sanctuary, located next to The National Aquarium at Al Qana, aims to offer an exceptional, nature-driven experience, enhancing the city’s vibrant tourism offerings.
10,000 butterflies in bio-domes
The Butterfly Gardens will house over 10,000 butterflies within climate-controlled bio-domes that replicate ecosystems from around the globe.
The facility will feature two zones: Asia and the Americas. The Americas zone will showcase wildlife such as two-toed sloths, caiman crocodiles, and American insects, while the Asian zone will host bearcats, koi carp, and a variety of Asian insects. Visitors will walk through lush landscapes, surrounded by butterflies, for a truly immersive nature experience.
Paul Hamilton, General Manager of The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi, emphasized the sanctuary’s educational and conservation focus: “Our primary objective is to create an environment that authentically mirrors natural habitats, ensuring the butterflies and wildlife thrive in a secure, controlled setting. This is more than an attraction; it’s a nature reserve designed to promote a deeper understanding of ecosystems.”
A family-friendly destination
As the first immersive butterfly sanctuary in Abu Dhabi, The Butterfly Gardens is designed to engage families, students, and nature enthusiasts.
It blends education, entertainment, and natural beauty, encouraging visitors to explore and learn about the importance of ecosystems and conservation in a captivating environment.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
