A new wildlife experience that goes far beyond butterflies has opened in Al Qana, Abu Dhabi. The Butterfly Gardens combines over 10,000 butterflies, rare rainforest species and tropical environments brought to life indoors within a fully climate-controlled space.
The walk-through experience leads guests through biodomes inspired by the landscapes of Asia and the Americas, with soft lights, tall planting and the sound of water shaping the atmosphere. Along the pathways, visitors encounter koi ponds, fluttering butterflies and moments of stillness.
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.
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.
Tickets are priced at AED 55 per person for entry to the Butterfly Garden and AED 150 for combined entry with The National Aquarium.
For more information, visit https://butterflygardensabudhabi.com
