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AZD destination photo
MED destination photo

AZDMED

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior mix of diverse landscapes, including the jagged southern Zagros Mountains, the turquoise transition into the Persian Gulf, and the fascinating volcanic fields on the final approach to Madinah.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🏔️

Southern Zagros Folds

Dramatic aerial views of the sedimentary folds and ridges of the southern Zagros mountain range shortly after departure.

🌊

Persian Gulf Crossing

Stunning vistas of the coastline near Bushehr followed by the deep blue expanse of the Gulf waters.

🏜️

Ad-Dahna Sand Dunes

A narrow strip of reddish sand dunes that connects the northern and southern deserts of the Arabian Peninsula.

🌋

Harrat Rahat

The massive, dark basaltic volcanic fields located just south of Madinah, showcasing ancient lava flows.

🏙️

Madinah Outskirts

Views of the sprawling urban landscape and the rugged Hijaz mountains during the descent into the city.

The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct glare while viewing the Iranian coastline. On approach to MED, look closely for the contrast between the black volcanic rock and the beige desert sand. For evening flights, the sunset over the Arabian desert provides a spectacular backdrop to the volcanic craters.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🏔️

Central Zagros Peaks

Views of the higher, often snow-capped peaks of the central Zagros range looking north toward Isfahan.

🌾

Mesopotamian Fringe

Distant views of the hazy floodplains and the confluence of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers near the Iraqi border.

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An Nafud Desert

The southern edges of the Great Nafud, known for its large, crescent-shaped red sand dunes.

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Jabal Shammar

The granite mountain ranges surrounding the city of Hail, rising abruptly from the flat desert plains.

🛤️

Hejaz Route

The historic route of the Hejaz Railway, visible as a faint line traversing the northern Saudi landscape.

The right side is best for mid-day flights as it remains in the shade when flying southwest. It offers the most consistent views of the high mountains during the first 30 minutes of flight. Keep your camera ready for the unique granite formations of the Shammar region mid-flight.

Top Activities in Madinah
Route Information

Distance: 1,643 km (1,021 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 11 min

Departure: AZD (31.904899597199996, 54.2765007019)

Arrival: MED (24.5534, 39.705101)

Route Type: International

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