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ADD → DMM
Which side of the plane to sit from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa) to King Fahd International Airport (Dammam)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular vantage point over the Danakil Depression, the unique tectonic landscapes of the Afar Triangle, and a scenic coastal approach over the Persian Gulf.
Danakil Depression
One of the lowest and hottest places on Earth, featuring otherworldly salt pans and active volcanic structures like Erta Ale.
Afar Triangle
A rare glimpse of the triple-junction tectonic plate boundary where the earth is literally pulling apart.
Farasan Islands
Beautiful coral archipelagos and turquoise shallows visible as the flight crosses into Saudi Arabian airspace.
Half Moon Bay
The iconic crescent-shaped coastline of the Eastern Province visible during the final descent into Dammam.
King Abdulaziz Port
Massive scale views of the major Persian Gulf shipping hub and industrial infrastructure before landing.
The right side is superior for geological enthusiasts. For the best views of the Danakil Depression, look out approximately 30-45 minutes after departing Addis Ababa. During descent into DMM, the right side provides a clear view of the Persian Gulf's coastline. Afternoon flights on this side offer the best lighting conditions for photography.
Ethiopian Highlands
Dramatic views of the rugged volcanic plateaus and deep river gorges shortly after takeoff from Addis Ababa.
Red Sea West Coast
Aerial perspective of the Eritrean coastline and the transition from the African continent to the deep blue sea.
Ad-Dahna Desert
The striking 'river' of reddish-orange sand dunes that connects the northern An Nafud and southern Rub' al Khali deserts.
Riyadh Outskirts
Distant views of the expanding Saudi capital and its distinctive geometric urban planning in the desert landscape.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the rising sun. This side is better for viewing the high-altitude plateaus of northern Ethiopia and the central Saudi Arabian urban sprawl. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes after takeoff for the most dramatic mountain shadows.
Distance: 2,264 km (1,407 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 1 min
Departure: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)
Arrival: DMM (26.471200942993164, 49.79790115356445)
Route Type: International
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