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DMM → RUH
Which side of the plane to sit from King Fahd International Airport (Dammam) to King Khaled International Airport (Riyadh)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side offers superior views of the Arabian Gulf coastline shortly after takeoff and a more likely perspective of the Riyadh urban sprawl and central landmarks during the final approach into King Khaled International Airport.
Arabian Gulf Coastline
Stunning views of the turquoise waters as the plane ascends from the Dammam area.
Dammam and Khobar
Detailed views of the urban layout of the Eastern Province, including the King Fahd Causeway to Bahrain in the distance.
Ad-Dahna Sand Dunes
The plane crosses the narrow strip of high-contrast orange-red sand dunes connecting the An Nafud and Rub' al Khali deserts.
Riyadh Skyline
Depending on the approach vector, you may see the Kingdom Centre and Al Faisaliah Tower rising from the horizon.
For the best photography, choose a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the red dunes. If flying in the late afternoon, the Left Side captures the sunset over the Nejd plateau. Monitor the flight path; a southern approach to RUH often yields the best city views from this side.
King Fahd International Airport
A comprehensive overhead view of the world's largest airport by land area immediately after takeoff.
Central Desert Plateau
An expansive view of the harsh, rocky terrain and vast desert landscapes of central Saudi Arabia.
Bedouin Settlements
Occasional sightings of traditional nomadic encampments and desert tracks visible in the sand below.
Tuwaiq Escarpment
Distant views of the dramatic limestone cliffs that characterize the geography of the central region.
The right side is ideal for passengers wanting to see the sheer scale of the DMM airport complex upon departure. During midday flights, this side may experience more direct glare, so high-quality sunglasses are recommended. Watch for the geometric patterns of circular irrigation farms near the outskirts of Riyadh.
Distance: 353 km (219 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 35 min
Departure: DMM (26.471200942993164, 49.79790115356445)
Arrival: RUH (24.957599639892575, 46.69879913330078)
Route Type: Domestic
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