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BEG destination photo
AUH destination photo

BEGAUH

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of Istanbul and the Sea of Marmara, the lush Tigris-Euphrates river basins, and a stunning approach into Abu Dhabi over the turquoise waters and islands of the Persian Gulf.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏙️

Belgrade & Danube

Aerial view of the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers shortly after takeoff.

🌊

Istanbul & Marmara Sea

Breathtaking views of the Bosphorus Strait and the dense urban sprawl of Istanbul.

⛰️

Central Anatolia

The rugged, rolling terrain of the Turkish heartland with its unique geological formations.

💧

Tigris River Basin

The winding silver ribbons of the Tigris river cutting through the Iraqi plains.

🏢

Kuwait City Coastline

Glittering skyscrapers and the distinctive Kuwait Towers as you cross into the Persian Gulf.

🏝️

Abu Dhabi Islands

Aerial views of Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, and the intricate mangrove forests near the airport.

For day flights, sit on the left to avoid direct glare from the southern sun while over Turkey and Iraq. The approach into AUH often loops around the city, providing excellent views of the Grand Mosque if the flight path comes from the north. Aim for a window seat in front of the wing to capture the Bosphorus without engine obstruction.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
🏔️

Balkan Mountains

Snow-capped peaks of Bulgaria and the Rila range visible shortly after departure.

⛰️

Taurus Mountains

Dramatic limestone peaks and deep valleys in Southern Turkey.

🌾

Euphrates River Valley

The historic cradle of civilization seen cutting through the arid landscape of Syria and Iraq.

🏜️

Arabian Desert Dunes

Vast stretches of golden and reddish sand dunes as the plane enters UAE airspace.

🏗️

Zayed City

The geometric expansion of Abu Dhabi's residential suburbs and desert developments.

The right side experiences significant sun glare during southbound daytime flights, making photography difficult. However, it offers spectacular views of the Taurus Mountains in winter when they are heavily snow-capped. During sunset flights, this side provides a vibrant view of the desert landscape turning deep shades of orange and red.

Top Activities in Abu Dhabi
Route Information

Distance: 3,829 km (2,379 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 30 min

Departure: BEG (44.8184013367, 20.3090991974)

Arrival: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)

Route Type: International

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