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GRU destination photo
DXB destination photo

GRUDXB

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is generally preferred for this ultra-long-haul route, offering sightings of the dramatic Tibesti Mountains in the Sahara, a clear view of the Nile River's green ribbon, and the iconic Burj Khalifa skyline during the final approach into Dubai.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏙️

São Paulo Sprawl

Immediately after takeoff, witness the immense urban landscape of Brazil's largest city stretching to the horizon.

🌅

Atlantic Sunrise

As the flight heads east, the left side offers a spectacular view of the sun rising over the open Atlantic Ocean.

🏜️

Tibesti Mountains

Observe the striking dark volcanic peaks of northern Chad contrasting against the golden sands of the Sahara.

🐍

Nile River Valley

Spot the winding green corridor of the Nile cutting through the vast desert landscapes of Sudan.

🏗️

Dubai Skyline

The left side usually provides the best views of the Burj Khalifa and the downtown cluster during the descent.

Book an 'A' seat for the most consistent views of the landmarks. Given the long duration, many highlights in Africa will be visible during the second half of the flight in daylight. The approach into DXB from the west frequently aligns the left side perfectly with the city's major architectural wonders.

Right Side Highlights
8.3
🏖️

Serra do Mar

Catch views of the lush, forested coastal mountains of Brazil shortly after departing São Paulo.

🌳

Central African Basin

View the northern edge of the massive African tropical forests as the route crosses over West Africa.

⛰️

Ethiopian Highlands

Glimpse the rugged and dramatic high-altitude plateaus of East Africa if the flight path tracks southward.

🏜️

Rub' al Khali

Fly over the 'Empty Quarter' in Saudi Arabia, featuring some of the world's most majestic and massive sand dunes.

⚓

Jebel Ali Port

See the world's largest man-made harbor and the expansive industrial progress of the UAE on final approach.

The right side (K or L seats) is ideal for desert enthusiasts, specifically for viewing the red dunes of the Rub' al Khali. For those interested in the Ethiopian Highlands, this side offers the best perspective. Be sure to keep window shades down during the bright mid-Atlantic crossing to avoid glare.

Top Activities in Dubai
Route Information

Distance: 12,217 km (7,591 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 14 hrs 22 min

Departure: GRU (-23.435556411743164, -46.47305679321289)

Arrival: DXB (25.252799987800003, 55.3643989563)

Route Type: International

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