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DXB → CMB
Which side of the plane to sit from Dubai International Airport (Dubai) to Bandaranaike International Colombo Airport (Colombo)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the iconic Dubai skyline during departure and provides a stunning perspective of the Sri Lankan coastline and Colombo's urban sprawl upon descent.
Burj Khalifa
Unmatched views of the world's tallest building and the Downtown Dubai cluster during the initial climb.
The Palm Jumeirah
The famous man-made islands are often visible to the south as the aircraft turns toward the southeast.
UAE Coastline
A long view of the transition from the golden sands of the desert to the turquoise waters of the Gulf.
Negombo Beach
Golden sandy beaches and the Negombo lagoon are clearly visible during the final minutes of flight.
Colombo Port
View of the bustling shipping lanes and the expanding Port City project as you approach Bandaranaike International.
The right side is highly recommended for the Dubai departure. To maximize the view of the Sri Lankan coast, look out the window roughly 20 minutes before landing. Note that evening flights offer spectacular sunset views over the Arabian Sea on this side.
Sharjah Skyline
Aerial views of the neighboring emirate of Sharjah and its lagoons shortly after departure from DXB.
Al Hajar Mountains
The rugged, dark peaks of the Omani mountain range visible as the flight crosses into the Gulf of Oman.
Oceanic Sunrise
On overnight or early morning flights, this side provides front-row seats to the sun rising over the Arabian Sea.
Sri Lankan Interior
Lush green vegetation and paddy fields of the Gampaha district as the plane aligns with the runway.
Choose the left side if you are flying during the early morning to avoid direct sun glare while still catching the sunrise. It is also better for seeing the inland greenery of Sri Lanka rather than the ocean during the final approach.
Distance: 3,288 km (2,043 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 52 min
Departure: DXB (25.252799987800003, 55.3643989563)
Arrival: CMB (7.180759906768799, 79.88410186767578)
Route Type: International
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