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DWC → RUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Al Maktoum International Airport (Dubai) to King Khaled International Airport (Riyadh)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the Dubai coastline and the industrial marvels of Jebel Ali immediately after takeoff, followed by the dramatic geological formations of the Tuwaiq Escarpment upon arrival in Riyadh.
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Palm Jebel Ali
An incredible aerial perspective of the second palm-shaped artificial archipelago shortly after departing DWC.
Jebel Ali Port
The massive scale of the world's largest man-made harbor and its bustling shipping container terminals.
Arabian Gulf Coastline
The turquoise waters of the Gulf contrasting sharply with the pale desert coastline of the UAE.
Ad-Dahna Desert
A striking corridor of high-iron red sand dunes that connects the northern and southern deserts.
Tuwaiq Escarpment
Dramatic limestone cliffs that rise sharply from the desert floor as the plane descends into the Riyadh plateau.
Sit on the right for the best views of Dubai's coastal landmarks during takeoff from DWC. During the afternoon, the 'Golden Hour' lighting makes the Tuwaiq Escarpment look magnificent before landing. Be aware that midday sun can be intense on this side of the aircraft.
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Rub' al Khali Fringes
The northern edge of the Empty Quarter, showing the transition from urban sprawl to infinite rolling dunes.
Sabkha Plains
Vast, white salt crusts that create a shimmering, mirror-like effect against the desert sand.
Desert Irrigation Circles
Large green circular crop fields that appear as geometric anomalies in the middle of the arid landscape.
Sit on this side for early morning flights to see the sun rising over the desert horizon. It is generally less prone to direct sun glare during the westbound flight to Riyadh in the afternoon. Keep your camera ready for the intricate wind-blown patterns of the sand dunes.
Get eSIMs for United Arab Emirates
Get eSIMs for Saudi ArabiaDistance: 853 km (530 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min
Departure: DWC (24.896356, 55.161389)
Arrival: RUH (24.957599639892575, 46.69879913330078)
Route Type: International
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