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IST β DXB
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Dubai International Airport (Dubai)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior visual experience, featuring a potential view of the Bosphorus upon departure and the iconic Dubai skyline, including the Palm Jumeirah and Burj Khalifa, during the descent into DXB.
Istanbul & Bosphorus
Depending on the takeoff direction, catch a glimpse of the Bosphorus Bridge and the historic peninsula.
Taurus Mountains
Fly over the southern Turkish highlands, featuring impressive limestone peaks and deep valleys.
Mesopotamian Plains
The fertile land between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers unfolds as the flight moves toward the Gulf.
Eastern Arabian Coast
Aerial views of the industrial hubs and sandy coastlines of Kuwait and eastern Saudi Arabia.
Dubai Iconic Skyline
The 'star' view: catch the Burj Khalifa, the World Islands, and the Palm Jumeirah during the standard approach pattern.
The right side is the 'scenic side' for the Dubai arrival. For the best view of the Burj Khalifa, choose a window seat on the right and hope for an approach from the north (Runway 12L). Avoid mid-day flights if possible, as the desert haze can reduce visibility; late afternoon provides the best golden-hour lighting for photography.
Black Sea Coastline
Initial climb out of IST often provides views of the rugged northern Turkish coast and the vast Black Sea.
Pontic Mountains
Vast stretches of the KaΓ§kar range with snow-capped peaks visible during the winter and spring months.
Lake Van
Depending on the specific airway, the deep blue waters of Turkey's largest lake can be seen in the distance.
Zagros Mountains
Dramatic, folded rock formations across western Iran provide a moon-like landscape during the mid-flight segment.
Sharjah Cityscape
On final approach, you will see the dense urban layout of Sharjah and the northern emirates before touching down.
The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. It offers better views of the tectonic ridges of the Zagros Mountains. Look out for the colorful salt domes of southern Iran as you approach the Persian Gulf.
Distance: 3,028 km (1,882 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 34 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: DXB (25.252799987800003, 55.3643989563)
Route Type: International
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