Abu Dhabi will be opening the doors to its first Butterfly Garden in September 2025. The announcement was made during the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, which is the region’s premier event for the travel and tourism industry.
The Butterfly Gardens, located adjacent to The National Aquarium at Al Qana, will offer a fully immersive, nature-driven experience. This vibrant new attraction will enhance Abu Dhabi’s tourism landscape. Home to over 10,000 butterflies, The Butterfly Gardens will feature lush tropical landscapes within climate-controlled bio-domes designed to replicate diverse ecosystems from around the world. The facility will be divided into two zones: Asia and the Americas, with each zone showcasing species native to its respective region.
In the Americas dome, you will see two-toed sloths, caiman crocodiles, and various American insects. Meanwhile, the Asian dome will feature bearcats, koi carp, and a variety of Asian insects. As guests stroll through the gardens, they will be surrounded by butterflies, creating a truly immersive experience.
“With the Butterfly Gardens, our primary objective is to create an environment that authentically mirrors their natural habitats, ensuring they thrive in a secure and controlled setting," said Paul Hamilton, General Manager of The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi, while speaking to media. “It is more than an attraction; it’s a nature reserve designed to promote a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of our ecosystems. We aim to inspire visitors to engage with nature on a meaningful level."
Developed with input from biologists and conservationists, this space includes interactive exhibits that explain the life cycles and metamorphosis of butterflies; live feeding zones where visitors can observe butterflies and reptiles in action; and touch-friendly installations that allow children to explore the natural world safely.
