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CAI → RUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Cairo International Airport (Cairo) to King Khaled International Airport (Riyadh)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior for its iconic views of the Giza Pyramids during departure and the surreal volcanic fields of central Saudi Arabia during the cruise.
Pyramids of Giza
Depending on the departure runway, you often get a spectacular view of the Giza Plateau and the Sphinx on the initial climb.
The Nile Valley
The sharp, dramatic line where the lush green vegetation of the Nile floodplains suddenly stops and the Sahara begins.
Harrat Khaybar
Incredible black basalt volcanic fields and rare white volcanoes visible in the central Arabian desert.
Riyadh Skyline
The Kingdom Centre and the Al Faisaliyah Tower dominate the horizon as you begin your final approach into King Khaled International.
The right side is the 'landmark side' for this route. For the best chance to see the Pyramids, ensure you are seated behind the wing for an unobstructed downward view. During the desert crossing, look for the 'Harrats' (lava fields) which look like ink spills on the sand.
New Administrative Capital
Bird's-eye view of Egypt's massive new urban development and the Iconic Tower shortly after takeoff.
Gulf of Suez
Looking north towards the entrance of the Suez Canal with numerous cargo ships waiting in the bay.
Mount Sinai
The jagged, sun-scorched granite peaks of the southern Sinai Peninsula as you cross towards the Red Sea.
NEOM Region
The coastal landscapes of northwestern Saudi Arabia, where massive futuristic infrastructure projects are underway.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you, providing the best lighting for photography of the Sinai mountains. Keep your eyes peeled for the deep blue contrast of the Gulf of Aqaba meeting the desert.
Distance: 1,612 km (1,002 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 9 min
Departure: CAI (30.12190055847168, 31.40559959411621)
Arrival: RUH (24.957599639892575, 46.69879913330078)
Route Type: International
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