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AUH → BSR
Which side of the plane to sit from Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi) to Basrah International Airport (Basrah)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides an unrivaled view of the emerald Persian Gulf waters and the historic Shatt al-Arab waterway during the final approach into Basra.
Saadiyat Island
A bird's-eye view of the Louvre Abu Dhabi's dome and the pristine white beaches of the cultural district.
Persian Gulf Islands
Aerial perspectives of various natural and man-made islands dotting the turquoise waters of the Gulf.
Shatt al-Arab Waterway
The legendary river formed by the confluence of the Tigris and Euphrates, serving as the border between Iraq and Iran.
Basrah Date Palm Groves
Extensive green belts of date palms that line the riverbanks, providing a lush contrast to the surrounding arid terrain.
Basra Sports City
The massive, modern architectural complex of the stadium is a primary landmark during the final descent into BSR.
The right side is highly recommended for the descent. As the plane turns toward Basrah International, you will see the intricate network of canals and the Shatt al-Arab. In the afternoon, the sun will be behind you, providing perfect lighting for photography of the Iraqi marshes and the river delta.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Visible shortly after takeoff from AUH, the massive white marble structure stands out against the city landscape.
Kuwait City Skyline
Clear views of the iconic Kuwait Towers and the dense urban development along the bay if the flight path hugs the coast.
Burgan Oil Field
One of the world's largest oil fields, recognizable by the vast grid of access roads and occasional gas flares in the Kuwaiti desert.
Abu Dhabi Corniche
The manicured waterfront and high-rise skyline of the UAE capital are visible during the initial climb.
Sit on the left for early morning departures to avoid the direct sun glare over the desert. This side is superior for seeing the urban density of Kuwait City and the industrial scale of the northern Gulf ports. Keep your camera ready about 45 minutes into the flight for the Kuwaiti coastline.
Distance: 968 km (601 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 37 min
Departure: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Arrival: BSR (30.54910087585449, 47.66210174560547)
Route Type: International
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