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DXB destination photo
HAM destination photo

DXBHAM

Which side of the plane to sit from Dubai International Airport (Dubai) to Hamburg Airport (Hamburg)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a stunning panorama of the Dubai skyline and Palm Islands during departure, followed by the diverse landscapes of the Balkans and Central Europe, all while avoiding direct sun glare on this northwestbound daylight route.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏙️

Dubai Skyline

Unrivaled views of the Burj Khalifa and the Downtown Dubai skyline immediately after takeoff from DXB.

🏝️

The World Islands

A clear view of the artificial archipelago off the coast of Dubai as the plane climbs over the Persian Gulf.

💧

Mesopotamian Marshes

The confluence of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in southern Iraq, showing lush wetlands amidst the desert.

⛰️

Taurus Mountains

Dramatic limestone peaks and deep valleys as the flight crosses southern and central Turkey.

🏘️

Balkan Cities

Aerial views of Sofia, Bulgaria, and the rolling green hills of the Balkan Peninsula.

🌲

German Highlands

The dense forests of the Harz Mountains as the aircraft begins its initial descent into Northern Germany.

Sit on the left for the best photography conditions, as the sun will be on the opposite side for the majority of this morning/afternoon flight. During departure, if the plane takes off towards the northwest (Runway 30L/R), you will see the Palm Jumeirah. In the winter, expect snow-capped peaks over Turkey and the Balkans, providing high-contrast scenery.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
⛰️

Zagros Mountains

The rugged, folded mountain chains of Western Iran visible across the Persian Gulf.

🌊

Black Sea Coast

The transition from the Anatolian plateau to the deep blue waters of the Black Sea.

🏔️

Carpathian Mountains

The majestic, sweeping arc of the Carpathians as the route crosses Romania and Hungary.

🧱

Berlin Scenery

Depending on the specific airway, a distant view of the Berlin metropolitan area and its surrounding lakes.

⚓

Port of Hamburg

During the final approach, the vast industrial landscape of one of Europe's largest ports and the Elbe River.

While the right side may experience more direct sunlight, it offers the best views of the Elbe River and the Port of Hamburg during the final approach. Keep an eye out for the distinctive container terminals. If the flight path takes a more northerly route, the views of the Black Sea coastline are particularly beautiful in the afternoon light.

Top Activities in Hamburg
Route Information

Distance: 4,884 km (3,035 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 45 min

Departure: DXB (25.252799987800003, 55.3643989563)

Arrival: HAM (53.630401611328, 9.988229751586902)

Route Type: International

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