Loading map...
AUH → ADE
Which side of the plane to sit from Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi) to Aden International Airport (Aden)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is preferred as it provides the most dramatic views of the Rub' al Khali's shifting dunes followed by a stunning coastal approach over the Gulf of Aden and the volcanic landscapes of the Aden Peninsula.
Rub' al Khali
The world's largest sand desert, showcasing massive longitudinal dunes and salt flats from a unique aerial perspective.
Wadi Hadhramaut
Deep, winding limestone canyons and plateau formations as the flight enters Yemeni airspace.
Gulf of Aden
Vibrant turquoise waters where the Arabian Sea meets the coast, providing a sharp contrast to the desert.
Mount Shamsan
An incredible view of the dormant volcanic peak and the ancient crater within which the city of Aden is situated.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Aden crater during the final descent. For daytime flights, the sun is generally to the south, so the left side may experience more glare depending on the exact hour; choose a morning flight to keep the sun behind you for better photography of the desert dunes.
Abu Dhabi Skyline
Distant views of the UAE capital's skyscrapers and coastal developments immediately after takeoff.
The Empty Quarter
Endless horizons of orange sand dunes stretching toward the Saudi Arabian border.
Yemen Central Highlands
The jagged, high-altitude peaks of the Sarawat range visible in the distance to the west.
Port of Aden
Views of the historic strategic harbor and the shipping lanes filled with international vessels.
The right side is ideal for capturing the vastness of the Arabian Peninsula's interior. During the descent into Aden, this side offers a better view of the inner harbor and the industrial areas of the city. Polarized sunglasses are recommended to cut through the haze over the desert.
Distance: 1,639 km (1,018 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 11 min
Departure: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Arrival: ADE (12.829500198364258, 45.02880096435547)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.