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AHB → DXB
Which side of the plane to sit from Abha Regional Airport (Abha) to Dubai International Airport (Dubai)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic Rub' al Khali desert dunes and provides the most iconic perspective of the Dubai skyline, including the Burj Khalifa and the Burj Al Arab, during the standard arrival pattern into DXB.
Sarawat Escarpment
Breathtaking views of the steep drop-offs from the Abha plateau towards the Tihamah coastal plain.
Rub' al Khali
The edge of the Empty Quarter, featuring massive longitudinal dunes and stunning patterns of orange sand.
Abu Dhabi Islands
Aerial perspective of the UAE capital's unique island geography and mangrove forests as you enter UAE airspace.
Downtown Dubai
Unmatched views of the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall, and the skyscraper corridor along Sheikh Zayed Road.
The World Islands
The man-made archipelago shaped like a world map is often clearly visible during the low-altitude approach into DXB.
The right side is essential for seeing the Dubai landmarks. For the best photos of the Rub' al Khali dunes, mid-day flights provide the most vibrant colors, while late afternoon flights accentuate the dune shadows. Be ready with your camera about 20 minutes before landing for the skyline view.
Asir Mountains
Immediate views of the rugged green peaks and terraced fields surrounding Abha upon takeoff.
Ad-Dahna Desert
The 'River of Sand' with its distinctive reddish tint stretching across the central Arabian plateau.
Riyadh distant view
Depending on the specific airway, the sprawling lights or urban grid of the Saudi capital may be visible to the north.
Persian Gulf Horizon
As the flight crosses into the UAE, the turquoise waters of the Gulf appear on the northern horizon.
Port Rashid
The historic maritime hub and cruise terminal of Dubai visible during the final descent over the city.
Choose the left side for better lighting during morning flights to avoid direct glare. It is also the side to watch for the transition from the high-altitude Sarawat mountains to the central plateau. On night flights, you may catch the glow of the major oil fields in the Eastern Province.
Distance: 1,525 km (948 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 2 min
Departure: AHB (18.2404003143, 42.65660095210001)
Arrival: DXB (25.252799987800003, 55.3643989563)
Route Type: International
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