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GIG destination photo
DXB destination photo

GIGDXB

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer stunning desert vistas, the right side typically provides a superior view of the Brazilian coastline upon departure and a more iconic perspective of the Dubai skyline and artificial islands during the standard approach into DXB.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏖️

Brazilian Coastline

Stunning views of the Costa Verde and the Atlantic forest meeting the sea during initial climb.

🏜️

Great Sand Sea

Endless rolling orange dunes of the Sahara extending toward the southern horizon.

🌋

Tibesti Mountains

The highest peaks of the Sahara, located in northern Chad, featuring prehistoric volcanic craters.

🕋

Hijaz Mountains

The rugged mountain range running parallel to the Red Sea coast in Saudi Arabia.

🏙️

Dubai Landmarks

Prime views of the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and The World Islands during the standard approach.

✨

Empty Quarter

The vast Rub' al Khali desert, showcasing some of the largest sand dunes in the world.

The right side is highly recommended for the arrival in Dubai; as planes usually approach from the west or south, this side faces the coastline and the city's famous skyscrapers. During the mid-flight crossing of Africa, expect harsh sunlight, so keep your shades down to keep the cabin cool until you reach the scenic Tibesti region. Night flights will offer spectacular views of the brightly lit oil fields in the Arabian Peninsula.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

Guanabara Bay

Aerial view of Rio de Janeiro’s harbor and the surrounding granite peaks shortly after takeoff.

🌊

South Atlantic Crossing

A long stretch over the deep blue ocean as the aircraft tracks northeast toward the African continent.

🌍

The Sahel Belt

The transitional zone between the Sahara Desert and the Sudanian Savanna across Mali and Niger.

⛰️

Air Mountains

Dramatic volcanic massifs in northern Niger rising sharply from the Saharan floor.

💧

The Nile River

The winding green ribbon of the Nile as it flows through the arid landscapes of Sudan.

🚤

Red Sea Crossing

Views of the busy shipping lanes and turquoise reefs near the coast of Port Sudan.

Sit on the left for the best chance to see the Nile River and the unique geological formations of the Air Mountains in Niger. Since this is an eastbound flight, the left side is the 'shadow side' during the day, which reduces window glare for photography. However, you will be facing away from the most famous Dubai landmarks during the final descent.

Top Activities in Dubai
Route Information

Distance: 11,884 km (7,384 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 13 hrs 59 min

Departure: GIG (-22.8099994659, -43.2505569458)

Arrival: DXB (25.252799987800003, 55.3643989563)

Route Type: International

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