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IAH destination photo
DXB destination photo

IAHDXB

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is generally superior for this ultra-long-haul route as it offers the most direct views of the Greenland ice sheet and the dramatic mountain ranges of the Middle East before descent.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🧊

Greenland Ice Sheet

Spectacular views of massive glaciers and the vast white expanse of the Arctic ice cap.

🌊

North Sea Coast

Aerial views of the rugged coastlines of Scandinavia and Northern Europe.

⛰️

Zagros Mountains

Stunning folded mountain ridges and high-altitude terrain while traversing Iran.

🛢️

Northern Persian Gulf

Views of the turquoise waters and maritime activity near the Kuwaiti and Iraqi borders.

This side is ideal for capturing the Arctic wilderness. Greenland is typically reached 5 to 7 hours into the flight; ensure your window is clear of frost. In winter months, much of the northern route will be in darkness, so check moon phases for lunar-lit ice views.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🌃

US Northeast Corridor

If departing at night, witness the concentrated glow of the American Eastern Seaboard.

🕌

Istanbul and the Bosporus

The bridge between Europe and Asia is often visible depending on the specific air corridor.

🏜️

Arabian Desert

The vast, undulating red dunes of the Rub' al Khali desert as you approach the UAE.

🏙️

Dubai Skyline

Superior views of the Burj Khalifa and the downtown cluster if the flight approaches from the north.

The right side is best for the final arrival sequence into Dubai. If the aircraft lands on Runway 12R, the right side often gets a sweeping view of the Burj Khalifa and the city's architectural wonders. Keep your camera ready during the final 20 minutes of the flight.

Top Activities in Dubai
Route Information

Distance: 13,125 km (8,155 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 15 hrs 26 min

Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)

Arrival: DXB (25.252799987800003, 55.3643989563)

Route Type: International

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