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ADE → AUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Aden International Airport (Aden) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning sequence of geological contrasts, transitioning from the volcanic terrain of Aden to the deep canyons of Wadi Hadramaut and the vast, undulating dunes of the Empty Quarter.
Aden Crater
Aerial view of the ancient volcanic caldera that forms the base of the historic city immediately after takeoff.
Wadi Hadramaut
The deep, ancient canyons and steep plateaus of Yemen's interior, featuring unique mud-brick settlements.
Rub' al Khali
Crossing the heart of the Empty Quarter, the world's largest contiguous sand desert with spectacular dune formations.
Al Dhafra Region
The transition from pure desert to the structured oil fields and solar farms of Abu Dhabi's western region.
Sit on the left side during morning flights to keep the sun behind the aircraft, providing better lighting for the desert landscapes. The contrast in the Rub' al Khali is most dramatic when the sun is higher, revealing the massive scale of the star dunes.
Gulf of Aden Coastline
Continuous views of the rugged coastline where the Arabian Sea meets the southern Yemeni mountains.
Al Mukalla
Views of the coastal city of Mukalla, nestled between the blue waters and the brown mountain cliffs.
Mussafah Industrial City
The massive scale of Abu Dhabi's industrial heart and shipping channels during the final descent.
Abu Dhabi Archipelago
Glimpses of the mangroves and coastal islands that surround the UAE capital as you approach AUH airport.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the glare of the setting sun. Keep an eye out for the coastline during the first half of the flight; as you approach Abu Dhabi, look for the emerald waters of the mangroves near the city center.
Distance: 1,639 km (1,018 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 11 min
Departure: ADE (12.829500198364258, 45.02880096435547)
Arrival: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Route Type: International
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