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DWC → MLE
Which side of the plane to sit from Al Maktoum International Airport (Dubai) to Malé International Airport (Male)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic transition from the jagged peaks of the Hajar Mountains to the iconic turquoise ring-shaped reefs of the Maldives.
Jebel Ali Port
View the world's largest man-made harbor and the industrial hub of Dubai South shortly after takeoff.
Hajar Mountains
Cross the rugged, rust-colored mountain range that stretches through the UAE and Oman.
Gulf of Oman
Watch the land disappear as the aircraft leaves the coast of the Arabian Peninsula for the open sea.
Baa Atoll
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve featuring stunning coral formations visible during the descent phase.
North Malé Atoll
Breathtaking views of luxury resorts and vibrant turquoise lagoons just minutes before touchdown.
Sit on the left for early morning flights to see the sunrise over the Arabian Sea. This side typically provides a better angle for viewing the primary island chain of the Maldives when approaching Velana International Airport from the north. Have your camera ready 30 minutes before landing.
Rub' al Khali
Distant views of the golden dunes of the Empty Quarter desert to the south after departure.
Arabian Sea
Spot large cargo ships and tankers navigating the busy maritime lanes toward the Strait of Hormuz.
Sunset Horizons
Perfect positioning for evening flights to witness the sun dipping below the ocean horizon.
Ari Atoll
Panoramic views of the Western Maldives island clusters if the flight path tracks slightly west.
The right side is ideal for afternoon or evening flights to avoid the harsh direct glare of the sun. While you may see fewer islands on the final approach compared to the left, it offers a wider sense of the vastness of the Indian Ocean and beautiful golden hour lighting.
Distance: 3,026 km (1,880 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 34 min
Departure: DWC (24.896356, 55.161389)
Arrival: MLE (4.1918301582336435, 73.52909851074219)
Route Type: International
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