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DWD → RUH
Which side of the plane to sit from King Salman Abdulaziz Airport to King Khaled International Airport (Riyadh)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a more dramatic perspective of the Tuwaiq Escarpment and a superior angle for viewing the Riyadh skyline during the final descent into King Khaled International.
Tuwaiq Escarpment
The spectacular limestone ridge known as the 'Edge of the World,' which runs north-to-south through the region.
Riyadh Cityscape
A comprehensive view of the capital's growing southern and central districts, including high-rise landmarks.
Agricultural Pockets
Circular irrigation fields near Dawadmi that appear as bright green discs amidst the arid landscape.
Sit on the right side for the most iconic geological views. Morning flights are best as the sun illuminates the western face of the Tuwaiq mountains. During a night approach into RUH, this side provides a stunning view of the city's vast grid-like street lighting.
Central Najd Plateau
The high desert plains of central Saudi Arabia, featuring vast expanses of light-colored sand and rocky outcrops.
Bedouin Outposts
Small, remote settlements and livestock enclosures that dot the landscape between Dawadmi and the capital.
Wadi Systems
Dry riverbeds that create intricate patterns in the desert floor, visible shortly after takeoff from DWD.
The left side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the direct southern sun. Look for the distinct change in desert patterns as the elevation gradually drops toward the Ad-Dahna desert region to the northeast.
Distance: 266 km (165 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 27 min
Departure: DWD (24.4499, 44.121201)
Arrival: RUH (24.957599639892575, 46.69879913330078)
Route Type: Domestic
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