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ATZ destination photo
RUH destination photo

ATZRUH

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers superior views of the Sinai Peninsula's southern tip and the crystalline waters of the northern Red Sea without the harsh southern sun glare. It provides a better vantage point for the dramatic transition from the Nile Valley to the rugged Arabian desert landscapes.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌾

Nile Valley Green Belt

Immediately after takeoff, witness the sharp contrast between the lush, green fertile land along the Nile and the sterile Sahara sands.

🏖️

Gulf of Suez & Sinai

Stunning views of the turquoise waters where the African continent meets the Sinai Peninsula, often featuring cargo ships queued for the canal.

🪸

Red Sea Coral Reefs

Aerial perspectives of the fringing reefs near Sharm El-Sheikh and the Straits of Tiran, appearing as vibrant turquoise halos in the deep blue sea.

🌋

Harrat Khaybar

As you enter Saudi airspace, look for the dark, ancient volcanic fields and cinder cones that dot the northern Arabian landscape.

🏔️

Tuwaiq Escarpment

The dramatic 'Edge of the World' limestone cliffs that rise sharply from the desert floor as you approach the Riyadh province.

Sit on the left (Window A) to avoid direct sunlight and glare during morning and afternoon flights. This side provides the best view of the Sinai Peninsula's mountain ranges. For the best photos of the Red Sea crossing, aim for a mid-cabin seat to avoid the wing's heat haze. Late afternoon flights offer spectacular 'golden hour' lighting over the Tuwaiq cliffs.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏜️

Eastern Desert Peaks

The rugged, jagged granite mountains of Egypt's Eastern Desert offer a moon-like landscape as you climb to cruising altitude.

🏝️

Red Sea Islands

Clear views of uninhabited islands like Shadwan and the diverse blue gradients of the sea's deep trenches.

⛰️

Sarawat Mountains

The impressive mountain range running parallel to the Saudi coast, featuring deep wadis and complex geological folds.

🐪

Najd Plateau

The vast, rolling sand dunes and gravel plains of the Saudi interior, showcasing the immense scale of the Arabian Desert.

🏙️

Riyadh Skyline

On the final approach, the iconic Kingdom Centre and Al Faisaliyah Center are often visible as the city emerges from the desert haze.

The right side (Window K/L) is excellent for observing the vastness of the Arabian interior, but be prepared for high sun intensity. Use a polarized filter if taking photos to cut through the desert haze. During sunset flights, this side experiences a beautiful transition from orange desert sands to the twinkling lights of the Riyadh metropolitan area.

Top Activities in Riyadh
Route Information

Distance: 1,584 km (984 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 7 min

Departure: ATZ (27.0464992523, 31.0119991302)

Arrival: RUH (24.957599639892575, 46.69879913330078)

Route Type: International

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