Al Noor Island
Sharjah
United Arab Emirates
Al Noor Island is a small landscaped island in Khalid Lagoon, Sharjah, with a paved perimeter path of approximately 1 km. It is not a high-mileage running venue — the loop is short — but it is one of the most scenic running spots in the UAE, with lagoon views throughout and significantly fewer crowds than the Al Majaz Waterfront promenade. Entry costs AED 20.
Key Facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Distance | ~1 km per loop |
| Surface | Paved path |
| Entry fee | AED 20 |
| Opening hours | 9am–10pm (11pm Fridays) |
| Lighting | Yes |
| Cycling permitted | No |
| Parking | Free — Corniche Road car park |
| Access | Footbridge from Corniche Road, Sharjah |
| Location | Khalid Lagoon, Sharjah |
How Long is the Al Noor Island Running Track?
The paved path around Al Noor Island is approximately 1 km per loop. For a 5K you would need five full loops of the island — manageable as interval training or an easy recovery run, but not the right venue for long continuous runs. Runners who want more distance typically use Al Noor Island as a warm-up or cool-down loop before heading onto the Khalid Lagoon Corniche, which is accessible directly from the footbridge exit.
What is Al Noor Island Like for Running?
The path on Al Noor Island is paved, flat, and well-maintained. It winds through landscaped gardens, past the butterfly house, and alongside the lagoon edge for much of its length. The route is narrow in places — wide enough for two runners to pass comfortably, but not designed for side-by-side running. Cycling is not permitted on the island.
The island is notably quieter than Al Majaz Waterfront. Even on weekend evenings, crowd density on the running path stays low because most visitors concentrate around the butterfly house and the waterfront seating areas. This makes it a good option for runners who find the Al Majaz promenade too busy.
There are no water fountains on the running path itself — bring your own water. Toilets and a café are available near the main entrance area.
Entry Fee and Opening Hours
Al Noor Island charges an entry fee of AED 20 per person. The island is open from 9am to 10pm Saturday to Thursday, and 9am to 11pm on Fridays. There are no early morning openings, which makes it unsuitable for pre-work runs — the Al Majaz Waterfront promenade, which is free and open 24 hours, is the better option for early morning running in this area.
The AED 20 entry fee covers access to the island path, gardens, and butterfly house. No additional ticket is required for the running path specifically.
How to Get to Al Noor Island
Al Noor Island is accessed via a footbridge on Corniche Road, Sharjah — the bridge is clearly signposted from the Corniche. Free parking is available in the car park directly off Corniche Road adjacent to the footbridge entrance. The island is approximately 2 km by road from Al Majaz Waterfront, making it easy to combine both venues in a single visit.
There is no public transport directly to Al Noor Island. From Dubai, the most practical route is by car via Al Ittihad Road or Emirates Road into Sharjah, then following Corniche Road signs.
Al Noor Island vs Al Majaz Waterfront for Running
Al Noor Island and Al Majaz Waterfront are the two most popular running spots in central Sharjah, and they suit different purposes. Al Majaz is the better choice for distance running — free, open 24 hours, with a 3 km loop that connects to the wider Khalid Lagoon Corniche. Al Noor Island is the better choice for a shorter, quieter, more scenic run — the 1 km loop through gardens is genuinely pleasant, but the AED 20 entry fee and 9am opening make it impractical as a daily training venue.
For most runners based in Sharjah, Al Majaz Waterfront will be the primary route and Al Noor Island an occasional alternative. See the full guide to running tracks in Sharjah for a comparison of all routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the running track on Al Noor Island Sharjah?
The paved path around Al Noor Island is approximately 1 km per loop. It is best used for interval training, recovery runs, or as a scenic warm-up loop rather than long-distance running.
How much does it cost to enter Al Noor Island?
Entry to Al Noor Island costs AED 20 per person. This covers access to the island path, gardens, and butterfly house. There is no separate charge for the running path.
What time does Al Noor Island open?
Al Noor Island is open from 9am to 10pm Saturday to Thursday, and 9am to 11pm on Fridays. There are no early morning openings, so it is not suitable for pre-work running sessions.
Can I cycle on Al Noor Island?
No. Cycling is not permitted on Al Noor Island. The path is for pedestrians and runners only.
Is there parking at Al Noor Island Sharjah?
Yes. Free parking is available in the car park off Corniche Road, directly adjacent to the footbridge entrance to the island.