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CAI → AUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Cairo International Airport (Cairo) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more diverse range of views, including the northern transit of the Suez Canal, the Mediterranean fringe, and a superior coastal approach into Abu Dhabi featuring the iconic Yas Island landmarks.
Suez Canal North
View the northern entrance of the canal at Port Said and the continuous stream of container ships waiting to transit.
Mediterranean Fringe
The turquoise waters of the eastern Mediterranean coast provide a sharp contrast to the golden sands of the Sinai.
Neom & Tabuk Mountains
Rugged, dark mountain ranges in Northwest Saudi Arabia that create dramatic shadows during the late afternoon.
Dammam & Bahrain
Glittering views of the Persian Gulf coastline, including the King Fahd Causeway connecting Saudi Arabia to Bahrain.
Yas Island
Upon descent, look for the bright red roof of Ferrari World and the Yas Marina Circuit circuit on the coast.
For the best experience, book a day flight departing in the early afternoon. This ensures the sun is behind the plane, illuminating the Suez Canal and the Saudi mountains without glare. On approach to AUH, the left side usually faces the city and coastal islands, providing the most iconic views of the UAE's modern architecture.
Giza Pyramids
Depending on the takeoff direction, you may catch a distant view of the Great Pyramids to the southwest of Cairo.
Sinai High Mountains
Deeply weathered granite peaks including Mount Catherine and the traditional site of Mount Sinai.
Gulf of Suez
The narrow body of water separating the African continent from the Sinai Peninsula, often sparkling in the sun.
An Nafud Desert
Vast stretches of reddish-gold sand dunes that characterize the interior of the Arabian Peninsula.
Abu Dhabi Skyline
A view of the city's central business district and the Etihad Towers as the plane turns for its final approach.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight entering the cabin. Keep your eyes peeled immediately after takeoff for the Nile River and the ancient structures near Cairo. During the mid-flight, the desert topography provides excellent photographic opportunities of 'star dunes' and dry wadi beds.
Distance: 2,378 km (1,478 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 10 min
Departure: CAI (30.12190055847168, 31.40559959411621)
Arrival: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Route Type: International
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