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DXB destination photo
AHB destination photo

DXBAHB

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers an exceptional viewing experience, combining the iconic coastal skylines of the UAE with the dramatic vertical drops of the Asir Mountain escarpment upon arrival in Abha.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏙️

Dubai Coastal Icons

Aerial views of the Palm Jumeirah and the World Islands shortly after takeoff from DXB.

🏝️

Abu Dhabi Archipelago

Views of the mangroves and coastal developments of the UAE capital as you track southwest.

🏜️

Liwa Oasis Edge

The northern fringes of the massive Liwa dunes, marking the start of the deep desert.

🐪

Rub' al Khali Dunes

The mesmerizing, rolling longitudinal red dunes of the Empty Quarter stretching to the horizon.

⛰️

Asir Escarpment

Dramatic views of the steep cliffs where the Saudi plateau drops toward the Tihama coastal plain.

For morning flights, the left side is ideal as the sun will be behind or above the plane, preventing glare while you photograph the UAE coastline. During the final 20 minutes of flight, watch for the green-tinged peaks of the Sarawat Mountains. This side is particularly scenic during the winter months when clouds often settle in the valleys below the Abha plateau, creating a 'sea of clouds' effect.

Right Side Highlights
7.9
🏗️

Burj Khalifa & Downtown

A clear view of the world's tallest building and the dense urban core of Dubai during departure.

⛰️

Jebel Hafeet

The prominent limestone mountain standing guard over the city of Al Ain near the Oman border.

🌊

Empty Quarter 'Sand Seas'

Endless patterns of star dunes and salt flats (sabkhas) in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula.

🏔️

Sarawat High Peaks

The rugged, high-altitude terrain of the Sarawat range as the aircraft approaches Abha's high-elevation airport.

The right side is best for seeing the sheer scale of Dubai's inland expansion. Be aware that on afternoon flights, the sun will be on this side of the aircraft, which can make the desert landscape look washed out; use a polarizer if photographing. As you approach Abha, look for the traditional stone 'qasaba' watchtowers dotting the mountain ridges.

Top Activities in Abha
Route Information

Distance: 1,525 km (948 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 2 min

Departure: DXB (25.252799987800003, 55.3643989563)

Arrival: AHB (18.2404003143, 42.65660095210001)

Route Type: International

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