Loading map...
ALA → AUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Almaty Airport (Alma-ata) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an unparalleled view of the majestic Tien Shan mountains immediately upon departure and the spectacular folded tectonic ridges of the Zagros Mountains throughout the transit of Iran.
Search flights from ALA to AUH
Trans-Ili Alatau
Stunning snow-capped peaks of the northern Tien Shan range visible within minutes of takeoff from Almaty.
Central Iranian Plateau
High-altitude desert landscapes featuring salt flats and striking geological formations across central Iran.
Zagros Mountains
Exceptional views of massive, wave-like mountain folds and deep canyons as the flight traverses western Iran.
Abu Dhabi Mangroves
The lush green mangrove forests and turquoise coastal waters of the UAE as the plane prepares for landing.
Select a seat on the left side for morning departures to see the Tien Shan mountains illuminated by the sun. This side is also superior for observing the rhythmic patterns of the Zagros mountain range mid-flight. During the approach to AUH, the left side typically offers views of the city's unique island geography and mangroves.
Get eSIMs for Kazakhstan
Get eSIMs for United Arab EmiratesKarakum Desert
The vast 'Black Sand' desert of Turkmenistan, offering endless horizons of dunes and arid plains.
Caspian Sea Coast
The western horizon often provides glimpses of the world's largest inland body of water near the Turkmenistan-Iran border.
Qeshm Island
A large, dolphin-shaped island in the Persian Gulf known for its unique 'Stars Valley' geological park.
Dubai Skyline
On clear days, the distant silhouette of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai skyline can be spotted to the north during descent.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon or evening flights to catch a spectacular sunset over the Caspian Sea or the Persian Gulf. Keep a lookout for the glowing flares of offshore oil platforms as the flight enters the Gulf airspace. This side also offers a better chance of seeing the distant Aral Sea basin if the flight path is northerly.
Book Hotels in Abu DhabiDistance: 2,930 km (1,821 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 54 min
Departure: ALA (43.35210037231445, 77.04049682617188)
Arrival: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.