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DMM → ADD
Which side of the plane to sit from King Fahd International Airport (Dammam) to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the Persian Gulf coastline at departure, the dramatic crossing of the Red Sea archipelagoes, and the spectacular ascent into the lush Ethiopian Highlands without the direct glare of the afternoon sun on southwest-bound routes.
Dammam Waterfront
Clear views of the King Abdulaziz Port and the sprawling coastline of the Eastern Province shortly after takeoff.
Rub' al Khali Fringes
Aerial views of the northern edges of the Empty Quarter, showcasing vast, orange-hued sand dunes and desert patterns.
Dahlak Archipelago
A stunning collection of over 100 coral islands scattered across the turquoise waters of the Red Sea near Eritrea.
Semien Mountains
Rugged, high-altitude peaks and deep canyons visible as the aircraft enters Ethiopian airspace.
Highland Terraces
Intricate patterns of ancient terraced farming on the steep slopes leading into the Addis Ababa basin.
Book the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh sun reflecting off the desert and sea. During the approach to ADD, look for the sharp transition from the dry lowlands to the verdant, cloud-touched plateaus. Keep your camera ready about 40 minutes before landing for the Red Sea coastline.
Al Ahsa Oasis
The world's largest oasis, visible as a massive green patch amidst the desert landscape near Hofuf.
Afar Depression
One of the lowest points on Earth, featuring unique volcanic formations and salt flats where tectonic plates meet.
Great Rift Valley
The dramatic geological trench that stretches through East Africa, marked by steep escarpments and ridges.
Entoto Mountains
The eucalyptus-covered hills that overlook Addis Ababa, signaling the final moments of the flight.
Addis Ababa Urban Sprawl
A bird's-eye view of the 'Political Capital of Africa' and its rapid urban development during the final descent.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to catch the sunrise over the Arabian desert. Look for the volcanic craters in the Afar region, which are particularly striking in clear weather. Be aware that during the rainy season (June to September), cloud cover over the Ethiopian highlands may obscure ground views.
Distance: 2,264 km (1,407 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 1 min
Departure: DMM (26.471200942993164, 49.79790115356445)
Arrival: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)
Route Type: International
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