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ABT → RUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Al Baha Airport (El-baha) to King Khaled International Airport (Riyadh)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic transition from the high-altitude Sarawat Mountains into the iconic red sand dunes of the Nafud Al-Muzahmiya and a better angle for the Riyadh skyline on many approach patterns.
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Sarawat Mountains
Breathtaking views of the rugged, high-altitude peaks and terraced slopes surrounding Al Baha immediately after takeoff.
Nafud Al-Muzahmiya
Massive, rolling red sand dunes that provide a stark contrast to the rocky plateau as you approach the Riyadh province.
Tuwaiq Escarpment
The dramatic geological 'Edge of the World' cliffs that stretch across the central region of Saudi Arabia.
KAFD Skyline
A clear view of the futuristic King Abdullah Financial District skyscrapers during the descent into Riyadh.
Book a window seat on the left (A or K depending on aircraft) for a morning flight to avoid the direct glare of the sun which rises in the East. This side is particularly scenic during the golden hour when the red dunes of Al-Muzahmiya are most vibrant. Watch for the sudden transition from green mountain terraces to arid desert within the first 15 minutes.
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Najd Plateau
The vast, sun-drenched heartland of the Arabian Peninsula, showing the scale of the desert landscape.
Wadi Hanifa
A long, green valley winding through the desert, featuring clusters of palm trees and ancient settlements.
Historic Diriyah
The ancestral home of the Saudi Royal family and a UNESCO World Heritage site, visible on the outskirts of Riyadh.
KKIA Terminals
A bird's-eye view of the iconic triangular arched terminals of King Khalid International Airport upon landing.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights as the sun will be on the opposite side, providing better lighting for photography of the desert textures. Keep an eye out for circular irrigation farms that appear as green polka dots in the middle of the beige desert landscape during the mid-flight phase.
Book Hotels in RiyadhDistance: 734 km (456 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 13 min
Departure: ABT (20.2961006165, 41.6343002319)
Arrival: RUH (24.957599639892575, 46.69879913330078)
Route Type: Domestic
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