Loading map...
AUH → FRA
Which side of the plane to sit from Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi) to Frankfurt am Main Airport (Frankfurt)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for the iconic Abu Dhabi coastline during takeoff and offers a sweeping view of the rugged Taurus Mountains and the Balkan peninsula, typically bathed in the high-contrast light of the southern sun.
Abu Dhabi Corniche
Dramatic views of the city skyline and the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf shortly after takeoff.
Mesopotamian Basin
The historical landscape of Iraq where the Tigris and Euphrates rivers meet the desert sands.
Taurus Mountains
Stunning snow-capped peaks in southern Turkey, offering some of the most rugged terrain on the route.
Aegean and Black Sea Coastlines
Glances of the intricate coastlines and deep blue waters as the flight crosses into Europe.
Balkan Peninsula
The rolling hills and dense forests of Bulgaria and Serbia unfolding beneath the wings.
Frankfurt Skyline
If the flight approaches from the east, the 'Mainhattan' skyscrapers are visible on the left side during final descent.
For daytime flights, the sun remains to the south (left side), which provides dramatic shadows on mountain ranges but can cause glare. Use a polarizing filter for photos. This side is especially rewarding during early morning departures when the desert light is soft and golden.
Yas Island
A clear view of the bright red Ferrari World roof and the Yas Marina Circuit immediately after departure.
Lake Van
The largest lake in Turkey, known for its deep blue soda waters and volcanic surroundings.
Carpathian Mountains
The dramatic arc of the Carpathians over Romania and Ukraine often provides excellent winter scenery.
Budapest & The Danube
On clear days, the 'Pearl of the Danube' and its bridges are visible as the flight traverses Hungary.
Lake Balaton
Central Europe's largest freshwater lake appears as a distinctive long turquoise sliver.
Spessart Forest
Lush green German highlands and the winding Main River during the final approach into FRA.
The right side is excellent for photography because it faces away from the sun, meaning the landscape is front-lit with fewer reflections on the window. Look out for the Turkish highlands; the geological formations and salt lakes are particularly vivid from this side.
Distance: 4,862 km (3,021 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 43 min
Departure: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Arrival: FRA (50.033333, 8.570556)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.