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HBE destination photo
ELQ destination photo

HBEELQ

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior perspective of the Nile River's winding course, the rugged peaks of the Hijaz mountains in Saudi Arabia, and the iconic circular pivot irrigation fields characteristic of the Gassim region during descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Alexandria Coastline

Immediate views of Lake Maryut and the sprawling Mediterranean metropolis of Alexandria upon takeoff.

🐍

The Nile River

A spectacular view of the river's main branch snaking through the desert, appearing as a thin ribbon of life.

⛰️

Hijaz Mountain Range

Dramatic, jagged volcanic rock formations and deep canyons as the flight passes over western Saudi Arabia.

🚜

Gassim Pivot Irrigation

Mesmerizing geometric green circles in the desert, created by central-pivot irrigation systems near ELQ airport.

🌅

Desert Sunset

On late afternoon flights, this side provides a front-row seat to the sun setting over the Egyptian and Arabian deserts.

For the best experience, choose a window seat behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the ground. The most impressive feature on this side is the approach into ELQ; the circular green farms provide a surreal contrast to the red desert sands. Use a polarising filter on your camera to cut through the desert haze for clearer mountain shots.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌿

Nile Delta Expanse

A vast, lush green triangle of fertile land that sharply contrasts with the surrounding golden Saharan sands.

🚢

Suez Canal Corridor

Distant views of the Gulf of Suez and the southern mouth of the canal where cargo ships queue for transit.

🏜️

Sinai Peninsula

The rugged, arid mountain ranges of the Sinai, including historical peaks and deep desert wadis.

🌊

Red Sea Crossing

Deep blue waters with visible coral reef outlines along the coastline as you transition into Saudi airspace.

The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun. Look for the Great Bitter Lake and the distinct line where the Nile's irrigation ends and the desert begins. In the winter months, keep an eye out for rare snow dustings on the highest Sinai peaks.

Top Activities in Gassim
Route Information

Distance: 1,466 km (911 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 57 min

Departure: HBE (30.91769981384277, 29.696399688720703)

Arrival: ELQ (26.30279922485352, 43.77439880371094)

Route Type: International

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