Loading map...
ELQ → SHJ
Which side of the plane to sit from Gassim Airport (Gassim) to Sharjah International Airport (Sharjah)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the iconic UAE skyline, including the Burj Khalifa and downtown Dubai, during the final approach into Sharjah, along with geological wonders like the Tuwaiq Escarpment.
Tuwaiq Escarpment
The dramatic 'Edge of the World' limestone cliffs stretching across the central Saudi landscape.
Riyadh Skyline
On clear days, the distinct silhouettes of the Kingdom Centre and Faisaliyah Tower are visible in the distance.
Rub' al Khali Fringe
The northern edges of the Empty Quarter, showing the immense scale of the world's largest sand sea.
Dubai Landmarks
Unmatched views of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai skyline as the plane vectors for landing at SHJ.
Mleiha Desert
The fossil rocks and archaeological sites of Sharjah's inland desert region shortly before touchdown.
This side is highly recommended for evening flights to catch the sunset over the desert. On the approach to Sharjah, planes often fly parallel to the coast, giving the right side a 'front-row' view of Dubai's famous skyscrapers.
Al-Qassim Farmlands
Unique circular irrigation patterns standing out against the desert sand shortly after takeoff from ELQ.
Ad-Dahna Desert
A striking corridor of reddish-orange sand dunes that connects the Great Nafud with the Rub' al Khali.
Arabian Gulf Coastline
Transition from the desert to the turquoise waters of the Gulf as the flight approaches the UAE.
Sharjah Lagoons
Views of Al Khan and Al Khaled lagoons and the dense urban landscape of Sharjah during descent.
Choose this side for morning flights to avoid direct glare. It provides the best perspective of the transition from the central plateau to the coastline. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for the coastal contrast.
Distance: 1,180 km (733 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min
Departure: ELQ (26.30279922485352, 43.77439880371094)
Arrival: SHJ (25.32859992980957, 55.5172004699707)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.