Today's Edition
MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)
A lush climate-controlled haven for butterflies is set to open in Abu Dhabi this September: the Butterfly Gardens.
Visitors are in for an immersive, biodome experience featuring over 10,000 butterflies and exotic wildlife from Asia and the Americas.
In an interview with Aletihad, Head Curator Lewis Cocks shared exclusive details about the project, which aims to fill a unique niche in the emirate’s tourism landscape.
“Through the Butterfly Gardens, we’re creating a small self-sustaining footprint of nature that people can come visit here in Abu Dhabi,” he said.
Two Domes, Two Worlds
The garden will feature two major biodomes: the Asia Dome and the Americas Dome – each designed to replicate the distinct ecosystems of their respective regions.
Cocks explained that these high-tech enclosures will utilise advanced UV-filtering panels that allow natural sunlight to nourish the flora and fauna inside while protecting delicate species from the UAE’s intense heat.
“The domes will help maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels all year round,” Cocks he added.
The system is also designed to be highly water-efficient through a closed loop process that helps regulate humidity and support indoor plant and aquatic life.
“We don’t have to use much energy or resources to keep the environment inside just right,” said Cocks.
“The water, for example, is reused through the koi ponds and the trees inside, which play a key role in keeping the humidity levels up … Everything works together in a kind of self-sustaining cycle.”
Exploring the Forests
Inside, 10,000 butterflies will flutter alongside a host of other animal species that call the Asian and American forests home.
Visitors to the Americas Dome can expect to encounter the Cuvier's Dwarf Caiman crocodiles and free-roaming two-toed sloths. At the Asian Dome, guests will discover koi ponds and a rare nocturnal mammal known as the Philippines’ binturong or Palawan bearcat, famous for its popcorn-like scent.
The Butterfly Gardens will serve as a learning hub, especially for local school groups, according to Cocks.
Curated educational ecosystems will cover rainforest ecosystems, biodiversity, conservation, and a closer look at the full life cycle of butterflies.
“It’s not just for display, we want students to truly understand how these ecosystems function,” Cocks explained. “And ultimately, why conservation matters.”
Construction is already underway, with the biodome structures expected to be visibly completed near the National Aquarium at Al Qana waterfront in the coming months.
While ticket pricing is yet to be finalised, Cocks confirmed it will be kept affordable.
“We want the Butterfly Gardens to be accessible to everyone,” he said.
