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DXB β DUR
Which side of the plane to sit from Dubai International Airport (Dubai) to King Shaka International Airport (Durban)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the iconic opportunity to see Mount Kilimanjaro and the stunning turquoise coastline of Mozambique and South Africa during the descent.
Dubai Skyline
Aerial views of the Burj Khalifa and downtown skyscrapers shortly after takeoff from DXB.
The Empty Quarter
The massive, rolling orange sand dunes of the Rub' al Khali desert in southern Arabia.
Mount Kilimanjaro
The snow-capped peak of Africa's highest mountain is frequently visible while transiting East African airspace.
Mozambique Channel
Beautiful views of the deep blue Indian Ocean and the tropical Bazaruto Archipelago.
Zululand Coastline
Dramatic views of the South African shoreline, featuring lagoons and white sand beaches upon approach to Durban.
For the best experience, choose a daytime flight. Kilimanjaro is usually visible 5 to 6 hours into the journey; sit mid-cabin or forward to avoid wing obstruction. When approaching Durban, the left side provides a superior view of the Indian Ocean breaking against the shore.
The World Islands
The man-made archipelago off the coast of Dubai visible during the initial climb out.
Ethiopian Highlands
Rugged, high-altitude plateaus and deep river gorges throughout central Ethiopia.
Great Rift Valley
The massive geological trench featuring extinct volcanoes and tectonic scarps.
Lake Malawi
The southern reaches of this enormous freshwater lake known for its crystal-clear waters.
South African Interior
The lush, rolling green hills of KwaZulu-Natal as the aircraft descends into King Shaka International.
The right side is excellent for viewing the Great Rift Valley's unique geology. If flying during the afternoon, the sun will be on this side, so keep window shades down to reduce glare until reaching the southern hemisphere. This side also offers great views of the South African 'Hinterland' on final approach.
Distance: 6,627 km (4,118 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 48 min
Departure: DXB (25.252799987800003, 55.3643989563)
Arrival: DUR (-29.6144444444, 31.119722222199997)
Route Type: International
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