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CAI → SHJ
Which side of the plane to sit from Cairo International Airport (Cairo) to Sharjah International Airport (Sharjah)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior for this route as it offers the iconic view of the Giza Pyramids shortly after takeoff, the rugged southern Sinai mountains, and the dramatic crossing of the Gulf of Aqaba.
Giza Pyramids
If taking off to the west or south, the Great Pyramids are often visible shortly after departure from CAI.
Mount Sinai Area
The jagged granite peaks of the southern Sinai Peninsula, including the Saint Catherine region.
Gulf of Aqaba
The deep blue waters of the rift valley separating the Sinai from the mountains of Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Sand Seas
A spectacular display of desert geology, featuring golden sands and dark rock formations.
Dubai Skyline
The iconic Burj Khalifa and the dense skyscrapers of Downtown Dubai usually appear on final approach.
Sit on the right for the best photographic opportunities. Be ready with your camera within the first 10 minutes for the Pyramids and again around 30-40 minutes in for the Gulf of Aqaba crossing. On morning flights, the sun will be on this side, so polarising filters are recommended for photography. For the arrival, the right side usually provides the best perspective of the Dubai skyline as the plane aligns with Sharjah's runways.
Suez Canal
The northern stretch of the canal where it meets the Mediterranean, showing cargo ships in transit.
Northern Sinai Desert
Vast, undulating sand dunes and salt flats that stretch toward the Mediterranean coast.
An Nafud Desert
The massive red sand dunes of northern Saudi Arabia, particularly striking during high-noon sun.
Kuwait Coastline
On clear days, the distant northern tip of the Arabian Gulf and the Kuwaiti coast may be visible.
Sharjah Waterfront
Views of the Al Majaz Waterfront and the distinctive architecture of the Central Souq upon descent.
The left side is the better choice for midday or afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun. It provides a more consistent view of the desert expanses and is generally better for seeing the northern entrance of the Suez Canal. During the approach to SHJ, keep an eye out for the coastal developments of the Northern Emirates.
Distance: 2,427 km (1,508 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 14 min
Departure: CAI (30.12190055847168, 31.40559959411621)
Arrival: SHJ (25.32859992980957, 55.5172004699707)
Route Type: International
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