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DOH destination photo
ELQ destination photo

DOHELQ

Which side of the plane to sit from Hamad International Airport (Doha) to Gassim Airport (Gassim)?

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers the most iconic views of the Doha skyline and The Pearl-Qatar upon departure, followed by the best perspective of the unique circular irrigation patterns in the Gassim region during approach.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

Doha West Bay

A stunning view of the cluster of skyscrapers and the corniche immediately after takeoff from Hamad International.

🏝️

The Pearl-Qatar

The intricate man-made island complex and its Mediterranean-style marinas.

🏜️

Ad-Dahna Sands

Crossing the narrow strip of high-contrast red sand dunes that connect the northern and southern deserts.

🚜

Pivot Irrigation Circles

Dramatic geometric green circles created by center-pivot irrigation systems in the arid Najd plateau.

🕌

Unaizah City

A clear view of the historic city of Unaizah as the aircraft begins its final descent into Gassim.

Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the eastern sun. The circular farms are most vibrant during the winter and spring months when the crops are at their peak. Watch closely about 15 minutes before landing for the most concentrated agricultural patterns.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
⚽

Lusail City

The futuristic city and its iconic stadium, visible if departing on northern runways.

🌊

The Persian Gulf

The transition from the deep blue waters to the shallow turquoise coastlines of Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

🏗️

Dhahran & Khobar

The sprawling industrial and residential hubs of the Eastern Province visible in the distance.

🪨

Najd Plateau

The rugged, rocky terrain and dry wadis (riverbeds) characteristic of the central Arabian Peninsula.

🏘️

Buraidah City

The administrative capital of the Al-Qassim Region, visible during the final approach phase.

The right side is excellent for afternoon flights as the sun will be on the opposite side, providing softer lighting for desert photography. Keep an eye out for gas flares from oil fields in the Eastern Province during night flights.

Top Activities in Gassim
Route Information

Distance: 792 km (492 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 19 min

Departure: DOH (25.273056, 51.608056)

Arrival: ELQ (26.30279922485352, 43.77439880371094)

Route Type: International

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