Abu Dhabi is about to gain a new wildlife experience that goes far beyond butterflies. Opening on 9 January 2026, The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi combines over 10,000 butterflies, rare rainforest species and tropical environments brought to life indoors within a fully climate-controlled space. Located in Al Qana, five minutes from the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and directly in front of The National Aquarium, the indoor sanctuary offers a calm, warm and unexpectedly immersive world that feels a step removed from the city.
Designed as a walk-through experience, the space leads guests through biodomes inspired by the landscapes of Asia and the Americas, with soft light, tall planting and the sound of water shaping the atmosphere. Along the pathways, visitors encounter koi ponds, fluttering butterflies and moments of stillness. The experience moves beyond a traditional exhibit, creating an environment where butterflies move as part of the space rather than as a display.
Deeper within the gardens, visitors encounter a rare mix of wildlife, including the two-toed sloth, Palawan bearcat, Cuvier’s dwarf caiman, tamandua, Sri Lankan giant squirrel and Gouldian finches. Each species moves freely through the space, creating a calm, open environment where guests can observe natural behaviours up close.
This approach reflects the intention behind the attraction: a space designed to feel welcoming, calm and genuinely enjoyable. Speaking about the vision, Paul Hamilton, General Manager, said: “The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi is designed to feel uplifting and inviting, a place where people can disconnect from the pace of the city and connect with something real and beautiful. We wanted to create an experience that’s memorable for families, inspiring for students and enjoyable for adults who simply want a quiet moment in nature.”
The butterflies are ethically sourced through long-standing partnerships with small-scale farming communities in Costa Rica and the Philippines. These programmes support conservation-focused breeding, help protect native ecosystems and provide sustainable livelihoods for families who have cultivated butterflies for generations. A percentage of the butterflies is released back into the wild each month, helping to support local pollination and strengthen the surrounding ecosystem. Each butterfly seen in the gardens is part of a wider effort to support both people and nature.
Education is a central element of the attraction. School groups can explore sessions on ecosystems, pollination and biodiversity, while visitors of all ages can learn from interactive areas dedicated to insects and tropical species. Guided tours will be available for families, private groups and tourists.
Fully indoors and climate-controlled, the gardens offer a year-round nature experience, something especially unique in Abu Dhabi’s climate. The space includes a café, a small retail boutique and dedicated areas for events and workshops, allowing guests to spend anywhere from a short visit to a full afternoon within the domes. Visitors can also choose a combined ticket with The National Aquarium, located within Al Qana.
Visitor Information:
Opening Date: 9 January 2026
Location: Al Qana Walk, Al Khaleej Al Arabi St. Rabdan Area, Abu Dhabi UAE
Hours: Monday–Friday: 10am–8pm | Saturday–Sunday: 9am–8pm
Tickets: AED 55 for Butterfly Garden | AED 150 for combined entry with The National Aquarium
