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ADD → RUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa) to King Khaled International Airport (Riyadh)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior view of the dramatic Ethiopian Highlands shortly after takeoff, followed by a wide-angle perspective of the Red Sea crossing and the rugged Hejaz mountain range.
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Ethiopian Highlands
Breathtaking views of the 'Roof of Africa' with its jagged peaks and deep river gorges north of Addis Ababa.
Red Sea Horizon
A clear view of the deep blue waters separating the African continent from the Arabian Peninsula.
Hejaz Mountains
Dramatic, arid mountain ranges that run parallel to the western coast of Saudi Arabia.
Najd Plateau
The expansive, rocky desert heartland of Saudi Arabia leading toward the capital city.
For morning flights, the left side is ideal as the sun will be on the opposite side, preventing glare while you photograph the highlands. Look out for the changing colors of the earth from deep red in Ethiopia to the pale tans of the Arabian desert. In winter, you might even spot mist over the Ethiopian valleys.
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Danakil Depression
Views toward the Afar Triangle, one of the most volcanically active and lowest points on Earth.
Bab-el-Mandeb Strait
The strategic maritime gateway between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden visible in the distance.
Asir National Park
The greener, high-altitude region of southwestern Saudi Arabia known for its unique flora and terraced farming.
Tuwaiq Escarpment
The massive natural limestone wall that cuts through central Arabia, often visible during the descent into Riyadh.
Choose the right side for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh western sun. This side is particularly interesting during the final 30 minutes of the flight, as the Tuwaiq Escarpment (Edge of the World) creates sharp shadows that define the desert landscape beautifully before landing at RUH.
Book Hotels in RiyadhDistance: 1,964 km (1,220 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 37 min
Departure: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)
Arrival: RUH (24.957599639892575, 46.69879913330078)
Route Type: International
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