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AHB → RUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Abha Regional Airport (Abha) to King Khaled International Airport (Riyadh)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a breathtaking perspective of the Sarawat Mountains' steep drop-offs and the dramatic Tuwaiq Escarpment as you transition from the highlands to the central plateau.
Search flights from AHB to RUH
Sarawat Mountains
Spectacular views of the lush, jagged peaks and terraced hillsides unique to the Abha region immediately after takeoff.
Tihama Escarpment
Watch the land drop away nearly 2,000 meters toward the Red Sea coastal plains in a sheer vertical wall.
Wadi Ad-Dawasir Agriculture
Giant green circular irrigation patterns that create a striking geometric contrast against the barren desert floor.
Tuwaiq Mountains
The 'Edge of the World' limestone ridge, visible as a long, winding cliff face stretching across the Najd plateau.
Riyadh Skyline
Excellent views of the Kingdom Centre and Al Faisaliyah Center when the aircraft approaches King Khalid International from the south.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the Arabian sun. This side is superior for photography of the mountain ridges and the dramatic descent into Riyadh. Aim for a seat forward of the wing (Rows 5-12) to ensure your view of the escarpment isn't obstructed by engine heat or the wing structure.
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Najd Plateau
A vast expanse of reddish-gold desert and ancient rock formations that define the heart of the Arabian Peninsula.
Trans-Arabian Highways
The impressive infrastructure of the Saudi road network cutting perfectly straight lines through the rugged desert terrain.
Desert Nomadic Paths
Subtle tracks and small settlements of traditional Bedouin camps visible in the remote areas between Abha and Riyadh.
RUH Terminal Architecture
A clear view of the iconic triangular roof structures of King Khalid International Airport during the final taxi and landing phase.
The right side is ideal for sunset flights (evening departures) as it catches the warm 'golden hour' light reflecting off the desert sands. Keep an eye out for the vast sand dune fields of the Dahna desert fringes, which are more prominent on this side during the mid-portion of the flight.
Book Hotels in RiyadhDistance: 856 km (532 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 26 min
Departure: AHB (18.2404003143, 42.65660095210001)
Arrival: RUH (24.957599639892575, 46.69879913330078)
Route Type: Domestic
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