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ELQ → DOH
Which side of the plane to sit from Gassim Airport (Gassim) to Hamad International Airport (Doha)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers the most iconic views, specifically the transition from the red sands of the Ad-Dahna desert to the turquoise waters of the Persian Gulf and the stunning Doha skyline during approach.
Buraydah Urban Grid
A clear view of the sprawling capital of the Gassim region and its unique administrative layout immediately after takeoff.
Ad-Dahna Dunes
The narrow strip of striking reddish-orange sand dunes that characterize the central Arabian landscape.
Gulf of Salwa
The beautiful coastal transition where the Saudi Arabian mainland meets the narrow sea separating it from Qatar.
West Bay Skyline
A panoramic view of Doha's futuristic skyscrapers as the aircraft descends towards Hamad International Airport.
The Pearl-Qatar
An aerial perspective of the oyster-shaped man-made island featuring luxury residences and intricate marinas.
Choose the left side for the best chance to see the Doha skyline and artificial islands like The Pearl on approach. For morning flights, this side is shielded from the harshest direct sunlight, making it easier to take photos of the Gulf's turquoise waters. Keep your camera ready as you cross the coastline.
Unaizah Farmlands
Impressive circular irrigation fields that look like geometric green patterns carved into the desert floor.
Dukhan Hub
The industrial infrastructure of Qatar's main onshore oil and gas fields on the western peninsula.
Khor Al Adaid
Known as the Inland Sea, this is where massive sand dunes meet the ocean waters at the southern border.
Hamad Port
A massive maritime gateway and industrial area visible just south of Doha during the final landing phase.
Doha Corniche
The crescent-shaped waterfront promenade and its surrounding parks during the final seconds of the flight.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the desert dunes. It also provides a better view of the 'Inland Sea' (Khor Al Adaid) if the flight path tracks slightly further south. Watch for the circular farms near Gassim shortly after departure for great geometric photography.
Distance: 792 km (492 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 19 min
Departure: ELQ (26.30279922485352, 43.77439880371094)
Arrival: DOH (25.273056, 51.608056)
Route Type: International
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