Another gathering of sorts is happening over in the United Arab Emirates, where the world's biggest indoor collection of butterflies has opened in Dubai. Boasting giant domes housing more than 15,000 butterflies and pupae, the Butterfly Garden and Miracle Garden are colorful escapes from the desert city.

Despite the desert sun, thousands of butterflies are enjoying the rich floral environment inside the temperature-controlled indoor garden.

Three domes house 15,000 butterflies from all over the world, and across 26 different species, which will increase to 40 over the next few months.

Among the first tourists to be impressed by the garden was Ekaterina Madani and her daughters.

"It's the first time we're here and we like it so much because there are so many different colored butterflies, many colors and flowers. We will definitely come back again," Madani said.

Outside the domes is an enormous flower garden, that is unsurprisingly shaped like a butterfly. It features around 50 million flowers that flow over sculptures and other designs.

The entire complex offers an oasis—for both humans and insects—from the construction cranes and noisy development typical in other parts of the city.

"This is the biggest covered butterfly garden in the world. It's 2,600 square meters with 15,000 butterflies including butterflies and pupas," said Abdel Naser Rahhal, managing director of Dubai Butterfly Garden.

It is hoped this world-class butterfly sanctuary will attract tourists from around the world.

"The butterfly garden is incredible. I've never... I've been to a butterfly garden before, but not as good as this. It's so big; it's got so many butterflies flying all around. It's so peaceful and tranquil, and the kids— they just love it," said Vicky Clark, a tourist from the UK.

The Dubai Butterfly Garden is open throughout the year, while its neighboring Miracle Garden will close at the beginning of June because of the hot summer temperatures.

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