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AZI destination photo
DXB destination photo

AZIDXB

Which side of the plane to sit from Bateen Airport (Abu Dhabi) to Dubai International Airport (Dubai)?

Our Recommendation
9.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a front-row seat to the UAE's dramatic coastline, featuring world-famous man-made islands, turquoise gulf waters, and the iconic Dubai skyline.

Left Side Highlights
9.5
🏙️

Abu Dhabi Corniche

Aerial views of the capital's manicured waterfront and high-rise skyline immediately after takeoff.

🏎️

Yas Island

The bright red roof of Ferrari World and the Yas Marina Formula 1 circuit are clearly visible.

🏝️

Palm Jebel Ali

The massive frond-shaped island structure as you cross the border into Dubai.

🏢

Dubai Marina

One of the densest clusters of residential skyscrapers in the world.

🌴

Palm Jumeirah

The iconic palm-shaped island featuring the Atlantis Hotel at its apex.

🌍

The World Islands

The man-made archipelago designed to resemble a map of the world.

Sit on the left for the most famous photo opportunities. Since this is a short, low-altitude flight, the detail will be exceptional. Morning flights offer the best lighting on the water without the glare of the setting sun over the Persian Gulf. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff for the Yas Island fly-over.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🕌

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

A breathtaking view of the massive white marble domes and minarets shortly after leaving AZI.

🏜️

Rub' al Khali Fringes

The rolling orange sand dunes of the Arabian desert stretching toward the horizon.

🗼

Burj Khalifa

While visible from both sides, the right side provides a clear view of the tower's height relative to the inland desert.

🖼️

Dubai Frame

The giant golden structure in Zabeel Park is often visible during the final approach into DXB.

🛣️

Sheikh Zayed Road

The massive arterial highway that connects the two emirates like a spine of steel and glass.

The right side is ideal for those interested in the contrast between the hyper-modern city and the vastness of the desert. This side is typically less affected by haze/smog glare in the afternoon. Look out for the Grand Mosque within the first 5 minutes of departure for a stunning photo.

Top Activities in Dubai
Route Information

Distance: 129 km (80 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 13 min

Departure: AZI (24.428300857543945, 54.45809936523438)

Arrival: DXB (25.252799987800003, 55.3643989563)

Route Type: Domestic

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