Invited by Sharjah Tourism Board, I saw how this emirate in the UAE has fostered eco-tourism practices through a butterfly house and centre dedicated to Arabian raptors aka birds of prey
Al Noor Island, Sharjah
Al Noor or the light of Allah, this island is symbolic of the colours that the creator has bestowed on the planet. I hadn’t expected to see butterflies in Sharjah—we have been conditioned for long on how the middle-east is a hot, desert region with almost negligible flora and fauna. The UAE’s modern infrastructure and well-planned educational centres of conservation change that perception.
A short, gated bridge led us to the island. The small, desolate piece of land in the middle of the river was restored and turned into an art and sculpture zone with a butterfly house in 2015. A green land in the midst of blue waters with a clear sky over it, teeming with edible plants and flowers, this island is popular with families and children. Shrubs and trees abound and LED installations across the island gave it a surreal feel. The major landmarks of Sharjah such as the amphitheatre, waterfront, are clearly visible.
The Butterfly House, in the centre of the island, is full of green creepers and constructed to retain humidity and allow natural light. It houses over 20 varieties of butterflies such as Tailed Jays or Green-spotted Triangle, Emerald Swallowtail aka Green-backed Peacock, Pink Rose, Gray Cracker and more.
A walk around reveals sculptures done by artists from across the world. From metals to flags and old trees, this was an aesthetic outing. There was a separate leisure area for kids. The children can also paint the pretty insects in a designated area. There is a café and a literature pavilion as well.
This is a ticketed island and holds events too. The ideal time would be to go around 4 pm, before the butterfly house closes and hang around till the evening lights come on, making it a fairyland.
Al Noor has won many international awards, including the Best Leisure Architecture in Africa and Arabia 2016 as part of the International Property Awards, and IF Design Award 2017 and German Design Award 2018. The Butterfly House was awarded the WAN Metal in Architecture Award 2016.
Where to stay in Sharjah city: Sheraton Sharjah with its five-star luxury and a private beach in the backyard is a good hotel for those who want the modern touch.
Al Bait, a heritage hotel, in the Heart of Sharjah, offers a unique luxury experience, giving a taste of the rich Arabic life.
Kalba Birds of Prey Centre
Kites are a normal sight in Delhi, but the more exotic birds of prey, raptors, are a marvel that I had not seen.
Kalba, around 120 km from the city of Sharjah, is a favourite weekend getaway for the Emiratis. The drive to this east coast is lined with fruit vendors and a stark landscape. It borders Oman. Native residents can drive around the gulf region without a visa. There are some grand cars in this part of the world.
Kalba is on the route of migratory raptors such as barn owl, short toad snake eagle, greater spotted eagle and lappet (hanging piece of flesh) faced vulture. There are only 8,500 lappet faced vultures left in the world. The birds of prey have been the hunting tools of Bedouin tribes for centuries. Falconry is an ancient sport that is alive even today.
“In 2012, His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, established Alqurm wa Lehhfaiiah Protected Area via Emiri Decree No 27. The decree created a protected conservation area of about 5 square km to include Khor Kalba (Kalba saltwater creek), Kalba Lagoon and the surrounding wetlands, salt marshes and mangrove forest. The protected area supports a vital ecosystem for a number of endangered species, including the Arabian collared kingfisher,” informs the website sharjahupdate.com.
The Birds of Prey Centre opened in 2014. Some raptors have been confiscated from poachers and others saved from the coastal belt. It serves as a rehabilitation centre for these exotic birds and education centre for humans. Every morning and evening, tourists and school children can see 18 of these ferocious birds in flight, in an amphitheatre setting.
I saw 84 precious raptors in this sanctuary of sorts. It is a little unsettling to see the birds sitting on a perch tied with a rope, but there are pros and cons of every situation. A pair of rescued, house-confined vultures sat on trees, covered by a net. They had forgotten how to fly and were being retrained for their winged life.
I did see the beautiful Peregrine Falcon as well in its enclosure. Among the other endangered species here are the greater spotted eagle, barn owl, kestrel, griffon vulture, long legged buzzard and more.
When I went in 2019, the centre was managed by Gerard Whitehouse-Tedd, exotic animal and raptor trainer, who loves wildlife, birds and animals more than human beings. Hailing from the UK, he has worked in a few countries for his work. To my curious enquiry of the popular perception that the Emiratis kept tigers and jaguars as pets, he just smiled.
The live flight demonstration session Gerry held for us was interrupted many times due to the rain. An owl perched on the wall, closely observed by a helper, Gerard gave us a background of these night birds, their hunting habits and behaviours. It flew close to our heads to the meat that the helper held in gloved hand.
Excited, yet nervous, I ducked to avoid getting hurt by the sharp claws. That’s not the way though. The more you duck, the lower the bird goes. You just need to let it fly past. I applied this principle when the vulture and eagle flew over my head. I could not enjoy more sessions, as the downpour increased. The birds were back in the enclosures.
The Kalba region is also home to the oldest mangroves in Arabia. While a lot of the mangrove swamp area is now modern Kalba with a university and other structures, a portion of it has been conserved.
There is a mountain conservation centre too, as the region is home to endangered species such as the Arabian leopard, Arabian wolf, Arabian tahr and the striped hyena.
I went with nature tour leader Candice to the Kalba creek, close to the Kingfisher Lodge where we stayed. She pointed out little turtles, whose shells bobbed up and down. Around 200 sea turtle species have been identified in the wetlands here. Kayaking and nature walks are the must-do activities in Kalba.
Where to stay in Kalba: the fabulous Kingfisher Lodge resort is named after the precious Arabian Collared Kingfisher. All 20 luxury tents have private plunge pools. the ocean on one side and the mountains on the other, sunsets and sunrises are paradisical here. Other facilities include bicycles, swings for children, spa.
How to Reach Sharjah
From India, Air India Express and Air Arabia have direct flights to Sharjah. International airlines such as Emirates, Fly Dubai, Etihad, Air India connect Dubai and Abu Dhabi with various Indian cities.
Have you been to nature reserves and national parks outside your native country? Do share your experiences with us.
This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla.
Queen of Treasures 
Wow, what an incredible experience! Your journey through this unique island and Kalba’s natural wonders makes me want to plan my own trip there. Thank you for sharing this wonderful experience with us!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you. I am glad you enjoyed reading it.
LikeLike
Always good to read more about how communities foster eco-tourism practices. I too would not have expected to see butterflies in Sharjah. Great that they could create an environment in which the butterflies could flourish. Birds of prey are more something I would expect in the Middle East. When we visited last we got a Falconry demonstration. Nice to see Sharjah has a centre to help protect so many of the endangered species.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It truly was an experience for sure.
LikeLike
I have visited Sharjah many years ago and it is interesting that there are nature reserves now. It’s truly amazing to see butterflies here and that too of different types. It must be a nice place to go with kids and being able to see all Sharjah landmarks from this island is awesome. Middle East always had the birds of prey displays but Kalba definitely needs a visit when in Sharjah.
LikeLiked by 1 person
How interesting to read that there are several nature reserves in Sharjah. The butterfly house looks lovely – I would like to visit this for sure. However I am not so impressed with the bird sanctuary. I can imagine that the mangrove swamps might be interesting too.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Even I am not impressed with zoos bit they do have a scientific value and we learn more from them.
LikeLike
The moment you say Butterfly House, I’m sold. My daughter absolutely adores butterflies and she’d love visit here. Thanks for the tip about going the in the evening, so we can enjoy the light show after visiting Butterfly House. Barn owl, short toad snake eagle, greater spotted eagle and vultures? It is a perfect outing for us.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sharjah’s natural reserves are a great treasure, providing a glimpse into the region’s unique ecosystem and animals. It’s admirable that you took the time to appreciate and support the conservation efforts in these reserves, demonstrating your great love of nature and its preservation. Your curiosity and respect for the natural world are wonderful, and I’m sure your experiences in Sharjah’s natural reserves left an indelible mark on your heart.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It didn’t surprise me that there’s a butterfly garden in the UAE. They have money. So, what can’t they build there? But I was surprised to learn that there are birds of prey and raptors there. I’m glad the government protected the area to support the endangered species.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This was a great visual tour of Sharjah. I had no idea what to expect, but this guide was very informative and showed me all the best parts of the city. It was a great way to experience something totally new. I highly recommend this tour for anyone wanting to see Sharjah from an insightful perspective!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I didn’t think either that the Emirates would have a lot of flora and wildlife, due to the extreme temperatures this area experiences every year. I would like to visit the butterfly house in Al Noor, especially that there are so many different species there. It must be such a special feeling to be surrounded by so many butterflies. The raptor centre sounds like a great place, especially that it is also a sanctuary that cares for birds who have been abused by owners – which shouldn’t happen, birds are not and shouldn’t be kept as pets.
LikeLiked by 1 person
They are really good at building things in the UAE. The Butterfly House would be great to visit. As is the Kalba Birds of Prey Center too. I would duck too if a bird of prey flew with its sharp talons close to my head. Thanks for the introduction to attractions in Sharjah Emirate!
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is amazing what they did here in Sharjah. Just like you, I have always imagined UAE as a hot desert so, seeing conservation centers like this is just amazing.
I would definitely love to visit the one in the mountains and even though I am scared, I would love to see a hyena in real life if that’s allowed.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow this is a beautiful place. Very well done up. I specially like the roof and the structures around. The birds are pretty anyway but I also love that they keep the place real clean.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You literally took us on a virtual tour. I love to visit the middle-east country and to explore the beauty of this country. If it so happens for me to visit Sharjah, I will consider this add to my visiting list. A commendable effort to penning down in-detail writeup.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This blog beautifully captures the enchanting allure of Sharjah’s nature reserves. The eco-tourism focus and river restoration efforts make it a must-visit. The guide on reaching there adds practicality.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The UAE has so many surprises up its sleeve. It has such attractions that you least expect there. The Kalba region is one of them. The lovely butterfly Park must indeed be a delightful experience. But the experience with the owls and raptors sounds really intriguing. Sandy N Vyjay
LikeLiked by 1 person
It surely was a different experience.
LikeLike
I used to have a colleague who previously worked in Sharjah and would share how great a place it was. Seeing this eco-tourist is something to attest that. It’s often Dubai that gets most highlighted when UAE is brought up but there’s really other parts of it that stands out as well.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is something new to me. I appreciate your efforts in writing the detailed blog post. This is a must-go-to-place for any traveller’s list.
LikeLike
What an amazing experience you had. I so wanted to take my kids to the UAE and we are due by the year’s end. Lovely pictures and information. Thanks for sharing
LikeLike
Learning about the migratory route of those raptors in Kalba gives me a newfound appreciation for the beauty of these creatures and the importance of preserving their habitats.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I only knew about the Birds of Prey Centre in Kalba and the Sharjah Cricket Trophy!
The birds of prey flying over you or swooshing down on you is not a feeling I look forward to, having been pecked hard on the head by a crow once!
It is thrilling to know about more than 20 varieties of butterflies and artistic sculptures abounding in this city. You have definitely added to my know; edge here, Thanks Ambika!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Crows are not birds of Prey so they have different habits ..and they are more tuned to city habits 😊
LikeLike
If you ask me about my inclination towards nature reserves or national parks… I am little choosy in this segment to decide where to go and where not because I am scared about the actions of the animals as no one knows when their mood will change to attack as I came across few incidents of national parks in India which are horrifying. But I am in love with birds and especially for the butterflies I will love to visit this place for sure if I get chance ….. I am already imagining that I am mingling with the butterflies and enjoying the beauty and vibrancy they are adding to nature. Thanks for taking me for a trip to Al Noor Island virtually
LikeLiked by 1 person
You could become a butterfly watcher this September around your neighbourhood, it’s annual butterfly count month!
LikeLike
What an incredible visit. Love to see the ecocentric tourism. I saw one of butterfly house at Hyderabad, Ramoji Rao Studio. I love it and saw the numerous colourful butterfly. It is beautiful place of Sharjah I would like to take my family over there. Thanks for sharing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
i wish you a happy journey.
LikeLike
I hv visited Dubai but from what you have told about Sharjah I feel ill need to visit there 2.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh wow. Being invited by the Sharjah board is an incredible achievement. Congrats on that. The butterfly house and birds of prey centre are two extremely different experiences. It is endearing to even read..I’m sure you would have loved it..
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ducking your head to escape from their claws and vultures flying around. It is equally scary and exciting. I would love to visit the place when I visit Sharjha
LikeLiked by 1 person
It was an exciting centre. And I saw the raptors up.close for the first time.
LikeLike
I hadn’t read about it before. I’m super scared of birds and animals…wild animals and birds, I’m not sure I have the heart to watch them up close. Your writing is wonderful with all the details and the pics are awesome. Ghoom ke aane wala feeling aa gaya mujhe…am happy.
LikeLike
Your trip to Sharjah is a wonderful treat! It’s amazing how much the UAE’s efforts to protect the environment have changed the look of this area. As someone who lives in Oman, I’ve had the chance to visit Sharjah, and it really is a beautiful treasure chest. And Ambica, if you have not visited Oman yet, then I encourage you to discover Oman’s breathtaking natural wonders too. From rugged mountains to pristine coastlines, Oman’s beauty is unparalleled.
Oman is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Have fun exploring.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh I really wish to do a driving.Holiday in the middle east. It turned out to be so different from all the stories I had heard. Oman and Bahrain are on my wish list.
LikeLike
One of my fav pastimes when I was back home was bird watching.. city life doesn’t give me that privilege. I like visiting zoos as well… the kind where u don’t feel pity for the animals. My elder daughter doesn’t like insects though… even butterflies.
But what a nice account of your experience Ambica. The place must be stunning n with all those natural beauties around.
I am glad u got to see raptors. And I didn’t know that you shouldn’t duck when birds of prey fly past… I thot that was the natural instinct. Thanks for sharing that tip.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It was a.learning experience Kaveri. And the location wad awesome
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m sure😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
I haven’t seen kite or vulture or even owl that close and it must have been a very thrilling experience for you. But, looking at them tied up makes me saddened, and also knowing these majestic birds were kept as mere pets or showpieces hurts a lot more. It’s an amazing endeavor by the govt to ensure their conservation and prevent them from getting lost in the past.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is sad to not see a bird.fly freely. But another perspective is that they have been ill treated. In terms of being either wounded or having been held captive ..so this rehabilitation is good. And then there is the scientific learning for us to understand the birds and love them and help them survive.
LikeLike
Can I say it is really beautiful. The island and the experiences in here that you have mentioned is so wholesome.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I would not have expected to see butterflies in Sharjah. The entrance itself looks so pretty. Thank you for sharing about these lesser-known places in Sharjah.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Indeed ! Nature always is ready to give surprises. Eco tourism is a need of an hour. I haven’t visited national part outside the country as such but small reserves in Australia reminds me nature at its best and city with tall buildings and hustle bustle life
LikeLiked by 1 person
quite incredible. Your visit to UAE was getting back to nature backed by modern architecture. From varieties of butterflies, islands, raptors, and splendid birds wow it must have been a memorable visit for sure. Pictures are vivid and a treat to the eye. ✨✨✨
LikeLiked by 1 person
I haven’t had a chance to visit the Middle East yet and Sharjah would definitely be on my itinerary now. Particularly the Butterfly House. Thanks for sharing another excellent gem, Ambica.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You would like it
It’s a cultural country
LikeLiked by 1 person
I never been to Sharjah but want to visit the place. I have visited to butterfly garden in CHangi airport and I loved the environment and the garden too. So, whenever I will visit Sharjah , I will make sure to visit this place. Thanks for this post.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Changi airport had a butterfly garden.. that’s exotic I must say 👌
LikeLike
Kudos to UAE, they are an example that anything and everything can be done if you have the money and intention! Never knew about the eco tourism in Sharjah! This is absolutely beautiful!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I have visited Sharjah before but never really knew they had these nature reserves. I would love to visit this place next time I’m in UAE. UAE really has some amazing places to visit, and they always thrive on making more and more touristic places.
LikeLike
Wow! these are some beautiful, Mesmerizing pictures, Can’t believe these pictures are from middle east. Some well planned infrastructure can definitely change the shape and view of any place be it a desert or any other place on this earth. This have become a must visit place now.
LikeLike
Your blog post is sharing a lot of information on travelling outside the country India. This is a great post. Gonna share. Thanks
LikeLike
Wow, what an extraordinary experience! Your captivating journey through its natural wonders is inspiring. Thank you the for sharing of this experience!
LikeLike