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DXB β KBL
Which side of the plane to sit from Dubai International Airport (Dubai) to Hamid Karzai International Airport (Kabul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an unparalleled view of the Burj Khalifa upon departure, the dramatic geological formations of the Lut Desert, and the most rugged peaks of the Hindu Kush on approach to Kabul.
Dubai Skyline
Unmatched views of the Burj Khalifa and downtown Dubai shortly after takeoff from DXB.
Hormuz Island
The striking red soil and salt domes of this island are visible while crossing the Strait of Hormuz.
Dasht-e Lut
Aerial perspective of the UNESCO-listed desert, famous for its massive yardangs and heat-sculpted ridges.
Central Hindu Kush
Dramatic, snow-capped mountain vistas as the aircraft crosses into central Afghanistan.
Book a seat on the left (Port side) for morning flights to see the desert textures highlighted by low-angle sunlight. Ensure your window is clean, as the dust from the Lut Desert creates spectacular hazy sunsets on late afternoon arrivals.
Strait of Hormuz
Views of the busy shipping lanes and the deep blue waters of the Persian Gulf meeting the Gulf of Oman.
Qeshm Island
The largest island in the Persian Gulf, showcasing unique erosional landforms and mangroves.
Sistan Basin
The endorheic basin on the Iran-Afghanistan border, showing vast dry lake beds and seasonal wetlands.
Paghman Mountains
Rugged mountain ridges surrounding the Kabul plateau during the final descent into KBL.
The right side is better for spotting the maritime traffic in the Gulf. On winter flights, the southern side of the mountains often has less snow, providing a clearer view of the deep canyon structures in the Afghan highlands.
Distance: 1,686 km (1,048 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 15 min
Departure: DXB (25.252799987800003, 55.3643989563)
Arrival: KBL (34.565899, 69.212303)
Route Type: International
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