The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi Tickets

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Butterfly Garden entrance with glass domes and butterfly sculpture, adjacent to National Aquarium.
























































Top things to do in Abu Dhabi

The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi: Quick overview

Book Butterfly Garden Abu Dhabi tickets and skip the queue at one of the region's largest butterfly sanctuaries. Located at Al Qana waterfront, this indoor garden houses 15,000+ butterflies from 50+ species in a climate-controlled biodome. Your ticket includes entry to the butterfly pavilion, fish tanks, and the Miracle Garden-inspired seasonal flower displays.

  • Access included: Entry covers both climate-controlled domes, all butterfly species, resident mammals, and Insect Empire exhibits.
  • Dome highlights: American Dome features Blue Morpho butterflies, sloths, and hummingbirds. Asian Dome showcases Atlas Moths, koi ponds, and bearcats.
  • Conservation focus: Ethically bred butterflies from Costa Rica and Philippines family farms. Many butterflies released monthly to support global pollination.
  • Ways to explore: Self-guided walks through interconnected domes with bridge crossings. Plan 90 minutes to 2 hours for a relaxed visit.
  • Best timing: Weekday mornings (10am-12pm) offer thinner crowds and more active butterfly behavior. Weekends get busier after 2pm.
  • Best upgrade: Combo ticket with National Aquarium Abu Dhabi saves money and creates a full day at Al Qana with marine life and butterflies.

Which Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi ticket is best for you

Ticket typeIncludesWhy pick thisCancellationPrice from

Standard entry

Asia and Americas domes, Insect Empire, all animals

First visit, 90-120 min

Free cancel 24h

AED 55

Combo: Butterfly Gardens + National Aquarium

Both attractions, 10 aquarium zones, wildlife rescue tour

Full Al Qana day, save AED 45

Free cancel 24h

AED 140

What to expect at The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi

Family exploring The Butterfly Garden with vibrant flowers and butterflies under a sunlit dome.
Blue butterfly resting on a person's hand at The Butterfly Garden.
Tourist admiring a butterfly at The Butterfly Garden surrounded by lush greenery.
Anteater on a tree branch in The Butterfly Garden.
Close-up of a beetle on a rock at The Butterfly Garden.
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Step into tropical warmth

Glass doors seal behind you and humid air wraps around your shoulders. Two biodomes rise ahead, shaped like butterfly heads and connected by a bridge over koi ponds. Pick up the day's schedule near the entrance. Most visits take 90 minutes to 2 hours with natural pauses at feeding stations and rest benches.

American Dome: Wings and wildlife from the tropics

Blue Morpho butterflies flash electric blue as they pass. Look up and you might spot a two-toed sloth hanging motionless or a tamandua threading through branches with its prehensile tail. Hummingbirds hover at bright flowers near the waterfall. Stand still for a minute and butterflies often land on clothing or outstretched hands.

Bridge crossing: Pause between continents

A footbridge arcs over serene koi ponds and waterfalls. Watch fish drift below while both domes frame your view. This quiet transition offers the best photo angles of the architecture and a moment to reset before entering the Asian ecosystem.

Asian Dome: Moths, mammals, and mystery

The Atlas Moth, one of the world's largest, rests on tree bark with wings spanning nearly 30cm. Sri Lankan Giant Squirrels leap between platforms in bursts of orange and cream. The Palawan Bearcat moves with surprising stealth for its size. Koi ponds mirror tropical plants, and finches dart through the canopy. Butterfly species here show different patterns: Malay Lacewings and Great Orange Tips blend with flowers and foliage.

Insect Empire: Small creatures, big impact

Glass cases reveal praying mantises, giant beetles, stick insects, and scorpions from Asia and the Americas. Each display explains adaptation and survival. The Hercules Beetle from Central America, the Orchid Mantis from Thailand, and Golden Orb Weaver spiders show how insects shape ecosystems through pollination, decomposition, and predation.

Things to know before booking your tickets to The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi

  • Weekends (Friday-Sunday) draw larger crowds, especially between 2pm and closing. Booking online guarantees entry and skips the ticket purchase queue. Weekday mornings remain the quietest window.
  • Standard tickets cover entry to both the American and Asian Domes, the Insect Empire exhibit, and all resident animals including sloths, bearcats, giant squirrels, caimans, hummingbirds, and koi.
  • The Butterfly Gardens is self-guided. Walk through climate-controlled spaces at your own pace. Signage appears in Arabic and English. Staff members position themselves near key exhibits to answer questions and share insights about butterfly life cycles, animal behavior, and conservation efforts.
  • Combo with National Aquarium: The Butterfly Gardens and National Aquarium sit directly opposite each other at Al Qana. Combo tickets save AED 45 compared to separate purchases and include the Glass Bridge Walk, Wildlife Rescue Tour, and access to all 10 aquarium zones plus the National Geographic Pristine Seas Exhibit. Both attractions are indoors and climate-controlled. Plan 4-5 hours total for a combined visit, about 90-120 minutes for the Gardens and 2-3 hours for the Aquarium.
  • Children under 12 must be accompanied by a paying adult aged 16 or above.
  • Flash photography is not permitted inside the domes as it disturbs butterflies and animals. Tripods are not allowed. Do not touch butterflies or other animals—they live in open habitats and need space to move naturally. Re-entry is not allowed once you exit. Food and drinks from outside are not permitted, but a café operates within Al Qana.

The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi zones

American Dome

Where: Left dome upon entry, connected to Asian Dome via bridge.

Climate-controlled to mirror Central and South American rainforests, this dome houses Blue Morpho butterflies, White Angled Sulphur, Banded Orange, and Owl Butterflies. The Linnaeus Two-Toed Sloth hangs in deliberate slow motion from upper branches. Cuvier's Dwarf Caiman, one of the smallest crocodilians, rests near shallow pools. Tamandua Anteaters use their 40cm tongues to feed on ants and termites. Hummingbirds hover and dart between nectar-rich tropical blooms, their iridescent feathers catching light. Waterfalls and dense greenery complete the immersive rainforest atmosphere.

Asian Dome

Where: Right dome, accessed from bridge or directly from entrance.

Lush tropical plants, koi ponds, and elevated platforms create a tranquil Asian ecosystem. The Atlas Moth, among the largest moths on Earth, displays intricate wing patterns against tree bark. Malay Lacewing and Great Orange Tip butterflies flutter gracefully through foliage. The Palawan Bearcat (Binturong) climbs with its prehensile tail, emitting a scent often compared to buttered popcorn. Sri Lankan Giant Squirrels leap between platforms in vivid coats of brown, cream, and black. Gouldian Finches—called "rainbow finches" for their brilliant colors—flit through the canopy. Koi fish glide calmly below wooden walkways, adding to the peaceful, balanced atmosphere.

Insect Empire

Where: Dedicated exhibit area within the Gardens.

Glass-fronted displays showcase the remarkable diversity of insects from both continents. Meet the Hercules Beetle from Central America, the Jewel Scarab from Mexico, Leafcutter Ants from the Amazon, and the formidable Goliath Birdeater from Brazil. Asian residents include the Asian Rhinoceros Beetle from Malaysia, Giant Stag Beetle from Japan, Orchid Mantis from Thailand, and Giant Leaf Insect from the Philippines. Each display explains adaptation, camouflage, strength, and ecological roles, from pollination to decomposition, proving that even the tiniest creatures shape life on Earth.

Visiting The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi with kids?

The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi offers a gentle, immersive experience perfect for young families. Children are naturally drawn to butterflies landing nearby, colorful finches darting through trees, and watching sloths hang motionless in branches. The climate-controlled environment ensures comfort year-round, and the self-paced layout means families can move at their own speed without pressure.

Kid-friendly features include:

  • Open habitats: Butterflies and birds move freely, creating magical, up-close encounters that fascinate children
  • Animal diversity: From tiny hummingbirds to giant squirrels, there's always something new to spot and point out
  • Educational displays: Simple, engaging panels explain butterfly life cycles, insect adaptations, and conservation in language children understand
  • Quiet atmosphere: No loud crowds or overwhelming stimuli, just the hum of waterfalls and rustle of wings
  • Compact layout: The Gardens take 90-120 minutes to explore fully, preventing fatigue while maintaining interest
  • Stroller-friendly paths: Smooth walkways and ramps throughout both domes and the connecting bridge
  • Café at Al Qana: Family-friendly dining options just steps away for meals or snacks after the visit
  • Combo with Aquarium: Pair with National Aquarium for a full day of wildlife, underwater and airborne

Important note: Children under 12 must be accompanied and supervised by an adult aged 16 or older at all times. Flash photography is not allowed as it disturbs the animals.

Plan your visit to The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi

A family with Butterflies at Butterfly Garden Abu Dhabi
  • Weekdays (Monday-Thursday): 10am – 8pm
  • Weekends (Friday-Sunday): 9am – 9pm
  • Last admission: 1 hour before closing

Best times to visit:

  • Weekday mornings (10am-12pm) offer the most active butterfly behavior, thinner crowds, and cooler outdoor temperatures for your arrival and departure.
  • Weekends get busier after 2pm, especially during school holidays.
  • Butterflies are most active between 10am and 3pm when natural UV light enters through the glass domes.

Address: The Butterfly Gardens, Al Qana, Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street, Rabdan Area, Abu Dhabi, UAE
📍 Find on Maps

Located directly in front of The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi at Al Qana, the Gardens sit just 5 minutes from the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Getting there:

  • Taxi: Multiple taxi drop-off points surround Al Qana. Simply request "Al Qana Butterfly Gardens" or "Al Qana."
  • Bus: Several bus routes stop at Al Qana, including routes serving Rabdan Area and Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street. Check the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport website for updated schedules.
  • Car: Over 1,400 free surface parking spaces are available at Al Qana. Designated drop-off areas and accessible parking for People of Determination are located close to the entrance.
Restroom facilities sign at St Paul's Cathedral, including accessible and baby changing options.
  • Wheelchairs: Available free of charge upon presenting a valid ID at the counter
  • Accessible parking: Designated spaces for People of Determination near the entrance
  • Signage: Available in Arabic and English throughout the Gardens
  • People of Determination discount: 50% discount on tickets for visitors with disabilities and one companion
  • Cafés: Multiple dining options within Al Qana, just steps from the Gardens
  • Restrooms: Clean facilities available inside the Gardens
  • Climate-controlled: Both domes maintain comfortable temperatures year-round (approximately 30-32°C with controlled humidity)
Wheelchair in a museum setting highlighting accessibility features.
  • Wheelchair access: Fully accessible with ramps and smooth pathways throughout both domes and the connecting bridge
  • Stroller-friendly: Wide paths and gentle slopes accommodate strollers easily
  • Seating: Benches positioned near major exhibits for rest and observation
  • Mobility support: Wheelchairs available at the entrance for guests who need them
No smoking sign at Jardin Majorelle, Marrakech.
  • No flash photography: Flash disturbs butterflies and animals; natural light photography is permitted
  • No tripods: Not allowed inside the domes
  • Do not touch animals: Butterflies, birds, and mammals live in open habitats—observe without touching
  • Supervision required: Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult aged 16 or older at all times
  • Dress code: Visitors are requested to follow UAE public dress regulations (clothing covering shoulders and knees)
  • No outside food or drinks: Food and beverages from outside are not permitted; café options available at Al Qana
  • No re-entry: Once you exit the Gardens, re-entry is not allowed on the same ticket

Visitor tips

  • Arrive early on weekends: Gardens open at 9am on weekends. Early arrival means active butterflies, fewer crowds, and better photo lighting.
  • Wear light colors: Butterflies are more likely to land on white or pastel clothing. Bright floral patterns can also attract them.
  • Move slowly and quietly: Sudden movements and loud noises startle butterflies and birds. A calm, patient approach rewards you with closer encounters.
  • Look up and down: Sloths hang in upper branches while caimans rest near water. Scanning different levels reveals animals you might otherwise miss.
  • Visit between 10am-3pm for peak activity: Butterflies charge their energy from UV light. Morning through early afternoon sees the most flight activity.
  • Bring a phone or camera (no flash): Natural light through the glass domes provides excellent photography conditions without needing flash.
  • Plan 90-120 minutes: This gives you time to walk both domes, cross the bridge, explore Insect Empire, and sit for a few minutes observing animal behavior.
  • Combine with the National Aquarium: If you buy a combo ticket, start with the Butterfly Gardens (90 minutes) then head to the Aquarium (2-3 hours) for a full Al Qana day.
  • Check for feeding or talk times: While the Gardens are self-guided, staff sometimes share spontaneous insights near exhibits. Ask at the entrance if any talks are scheduled.
  • Stay hydrated: Even though the domes are climate-controlled, the humidity can feel warm. Drink water before entering, and cafés are nearby for refreshments afterward.

Frequently asked questions about The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi

The Butterfly Gardens in Abu Dhabi is open to visitors. Operating hours are 10am to 8pm on weekdays and 9am to 9pm on weekends.