Loading map...
DXB → JNB
Which side of the plane to sit from Dubai International Airport (Dubai) to OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a superior view of Africa's diverse geological features, including the Ethiopian Highlands, the Great Rift Valley, and the vast Rub' al Khali desert during the initial leg.
Rub' al Khali
The 'Empty Quarter' presents endless rolling red sand dunes across the southern Arabian Peninsula.
Ethiopian Highlands
Rugged, high-altitude terrain known as the Roof of Africa, featuring deep gorges and massive plateaus.
Great Rift Valley
The massive geological trench visible as a series of steep escarpments and volcanic depressions.
Lake Turkana
The world's largest permanent desert lake, known for its striking jade-green color.
East African Savanna
Expansive views of the Serengeti and Maasai Mara ecosystems during the equatorial crossing.
Johannesburg Urban Forest
The dense tree canopy of the northern suburbs becomes visible during the final descent into JNB.
The right side is essential for seeing the dramatic landscapes of Ethiopia and Kenya. On morning departures from DXB, the sun will be behind you, providing perfect lighting for the desert dunes. Keep your window shade down during the mid-flight over the equator to avoid glare, then open it as you approach the highveld.
Dubai Coastline
Dramatic views of the Burj Khalifa and the World Islands immediately after takeoff from DXB.
Indian Ocean
Long stretches of deep blue water as the flight path skims the East African coastline.
Bazaruto Archipelago
Stunning turquoise waters and white sandbars off the coast of Mozambique during the final third of the journey.
Kruger National Park
Aerial perspectives of the massive wildlife reserve as the plane enters South African airspace.
Drakensberg Escarpment
The rising peaks marking the transition from the coastal lowveld to the highveld plateau.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Dubai skyline during departure. For the South African leg, this side is preferable for spotting the turquoise reefs of the Mozambican coast. Use a polarising filter for photos to cut through the ocean haze during midday flights.
Distance: 6,413 km (3,985 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 33 min
Departure: DXB (25.252799987800003, 55.3643989563)
Arrival: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.