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Sharjah Ruler opens new tourist attraction Al Noor Island

Sharjah - PHOTOS: Developed by Shurooq, Al Noor Island is a state-of-the-art cultural and leisure destination that engages people with nature.

Al Noor Island, a unique destination in Sharjah located in Khalid Lagoon was inaugurated on Tuesday by His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah.
The opening ceremony also attended by Shaikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq); Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, CEO of Shurooq as well as a number of high-profile invitees and officials.
The 45,470 square metre island next to Al Noor Mosque, reflects the art styles of renowned designer, André Heller, and consists of a uniquely-designed, covered and streamlined structure inspired by a natural environment for butterflies, a pedestrian bridge that will serve as an entrance to the island, a Literature Pavilion, a children's playground, an egg-shaped OVO Art Sculpture and exclusively commissioned art sculptures from renowned artists. The OVO sculpture combines three elements - wood, LED lighting and water vapour, and is characterised by multisensory installation, where visitors can move through a light-reflective water pool to reach the two entrances of the sculpture.
The playground gives a primeval forest feel and children can climb the trees and enjoy themselves. The ground is covered with sand and grass, and integrated lights cover all parts of the playground.
The island is designed to allow visitors to discover natural life across a spacious area covered by lighting and vegetation.
"The inauguration of Al Noor Island was an exciting milestone event for Shurooq, representing the vision of Dr Shaikh Sultan to create unique destinations in the emirate that highlight the emirate's aesthetic and artistic values and cutting-edge architecture," said Shaikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi.
One of the island's main attractions is the Butterfly House, a nature-inspired structure with an ornamentally perforated shadow roof, biomorphic exterior, and plant-covered walls, and hosts as many as 600 exotic butterflies extensively found across East and South East Asia. The island also boasts of an exhibition displaying unique butterflies gifted by Dr Shaikh Sultan. The space also houses a modern Noor Café providing organic food and drinks.
The blossom-shaped Literature Pavilion is an open seating area for writers, intellectuals and book worms, and an ideal haven for those seeking serenity and relaxation. The pavilion is surrounded by stunning light reflections of letters from Arabic calligraphy with mesmerising colours, and decorated with plush cushions.
Additionally, the island's buildings, walkways, trees and bridge are lit using advanced technology. As part of its environmental commitment, Shurooq uses environmentally friendly lighting on the island. The island is also friendly to visitors with special needs, providing dedicated facilities and access paths.
The island also has a pontoon for boats to transport visitors of Al Qasba, Al Majaz Waterfront and the Heart of Sharjah to and from the island. A footbridge has been designed to serve as an entrance from the main gate to the island.
The island also has a jumping and jogging track.
afkarali@khaleejtimes.com

• Al Noor Island: Sharjah's new state-of-the-art tourist attraction