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EBL → AUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Erbil International Airport (Erbil) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for witnessing the transition from the historical Mesopotamian basin to the modern, glittering skylines of Kuwait and Qatar, finishing with a scenic descent over Abu Dhabi's leisure islands.
Mesopotamian Basin
Aerial views of the fertile agricultural lands and historical river systems of southern Iraq.
Kuwait City
Excellent visibility of the Kuwait Towers and the distinctive curve of Kuwait Bay.
The Pearl-Qatar
As the flight paths often skirt the Qatari coast, the man-made islands of Doha are frequently visible.
Saudi Coastline
The stark contrast between the pale sands of the Arabian Desert and the turquoise waters of the Gulf.
Yas Island
Just before landing at AUH, look for the bright red roof of Ferrari World and the Yas Marina Circuit.
The right side is the 'landmark side' for this route. For afternoon flights, be prepared for some sun glare as you head south-southeast, but you will be rewarded with a spectacular sunset over the desert. Look for the circular irrigation fields in the desert regions which look like green polka dots from 35,000 feet.
Zagros Mountains
To the far east, the jagged peaks of the Zagros range provide a dramatic backdrop against the Iraqi horizon.
Shatt al-Arab
View the confluence of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers as they flow into the Persian Gulf near Basra.
Central Persian Gulf
Deep blue waters dotted with massive oil tankers and offshore platforms marking major maritime trade routes.
Abu Dhabi Corniche
A sweeping view of the UAE capital's meticulously planned waterfront and high-rise skyline during the final descent.
The left side is ideal for morning flights to enjoy the sunrise over the mountains without excessive glare. It offers a broader perspective of the open sea once you cross the Iraqi coastline. Ensure you are seated well clear of the wing for the best view of the Zagros range during the first 30 minutes of the flight.
Distance: 1,663 km (1,033 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 13 min
Departure: EBL (36.23759841918945, 43.96319961547852)
Arrival: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Route Type: International
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