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ATH → AUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (Athens) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an exceptional geographic diversity, featuring the uniquely visible Dead Sea and the dramatic red landscapes of the Jordanian desert.
The Dead Sea
The world's lowest point is easily identifiable by its deep blue color and white salt-encrusted shores.
Wadi Rum
The 'Valley of the Moon' in Jordan showcases iconic red sandstone mountains and desert floor.
Rub' al Khali
The vast expanse of the Empty Quarter desert with its mesmerizing linear sand dune patterns.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Often visible on the right side during the final descent into Abu Dhabi, especially on northern approaches.
The right side is unbeatable for viewing the Dead Sea and Jordanian desert. Ensure you have a window seat clear of the wing for the descent into AUH, as the approach often circles the city, offering views of the Grand Mosque and Yas Island. Morning flights offer the best lighting for the desert colors.
Cyclades Islands
A stunning aerial mosaic of Greek islands including Mykonos and Naxos shortly after takeoff.
Taurus Mountains
Dramatic snow-capped peaks along the southern coast of Turkey providing a rugged northern horizon.
Persian Gulf Shoreline
The transition from the Mesopotamian plains to the turquoise waters of the upper Persian Gulf.
Kuwait City
Aerial views of the distinct Kuwait Towers and urban sprawl near the tip of the gulf.
Sit on the left for a daytime flight to avoid direct glare from the southern sun. This side provides superior views of the Aegean archipelago and the rugged Turkish coastline. Watch for the lights of Kuwait and Dammam on evening departures.
Distance: 3,263 km (2,028 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 50 min
Departure: ATH (37.9364013672, 23.944499969499997)
Arrival: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Route Type: International
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