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ATZ → RUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Assiut International Airport (Asyut) to King Khaled International Airport (Riyadh)?
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.
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.
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.
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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