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GXF → AUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Sayun International Airport (Sayun Intl) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is generally preferred as it faces away from the sun for most of the flight, offering better visibility of the Rub' al Khali and the Abu Dhabi coastline upon arrival.
Search flights from GXF to AUH
Rub' al Khali
Expansive views of the massive orange longitudinal dunes of the Empty Quarter.
Liwa Crescent
The northern edge of the historic Liwa Oasis system visible as you enter the UAE.
Yas Island
The distinct red roof of Ferrari World and the Yas Marina Circuit on final descent.
Abu Dhabi Skyline
A panoramic view of the city's modern skyscrapers and the Arabian Gulf coast.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct glare. This side offers the best angle for the Abu Dhabi city approach if the wind is from the north. Watch for the sharp contrast between the Yemeni plateaus and the shifting sands of the desert.
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Sayun Valley
Unique views of the mud-brick architecture and the Sultan Al-Kathiri Palace at takeoff.
Hadramaut Canyons
The rugged, deep-cut limestone wadis and plateaus characteristic of eastern Yemen.
Industrial Fields
Active oil and gas extraction sites near the border regions of the UAE and Oman.
Al Khatim Dunes
Vast stretches of rolling desert and traditional camel farms as you descend toward AUH.
The right side is excellent for seeing the immediate geography of the Sayun region during departure. Be aware that afternoon flights will experience significant sun exposure on this side, making photography difficult without a lens hood.
Book Hotels in Abu DhabiDistance: 1,122 km (697 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 30 min
Departure: GXF (15.9660997391, 48.78829956049999)
Arrival: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Route Type: International
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