Loading map...

JED destination photo
CMB destination photo

JEDCMB

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a superior vantage point for the dramatic desert landscapes of the Arabian Peninsula and the lush mountainous terrain of Sri Lanka's interior upon approach.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🏙️

Jeddah Waterfront

Panoramic views of the Corniche and the King Fahd's Fountain shortly after takeoff.

🏜️

Empty Quarter Dunes

The mesmerizing orange and gold patterns of the Rub' al Khali, the world's largest sand sea.

⛰️

Dhofar Mountains

The rugged coastal mountains of southern Oman, offering a dramatic transition from desert to sea.

🌴

Sri Lankan Interior

Vibrant green landscapes and distant views of the central highlands during the descent.

🌅

Arabian Sea Sunrise

Spectacular sunrises over the water for overnight flights arriving in the early morning.

Opt for the left side on overnight flights to witness a breathtaking sunrise as you approach the Indian subcontinent. For photographers, the first 90 minutes of the flight offer the best lighting for capturing the intricate textures of the Saudi Arabian desert dunes. During the summer monsoon (June-September), look for the rare green mist over the Omani coast.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

Red Sea Coastline

Striking views of the turquoise coral reefs and the deep blue of the Red Sea during departure.

🐪

Southern Desert Fringe

Aerial perspective of the remote southern borders of Saudi Arabia and Yemen.

🏖️

Salalah Shoreline

The pristine white sand beaches and rocky cliffs where the peninsula meets the Arabian Sea.

🛶

Negombo Lagoon

Clear views of the iconic fishing marshes and coastal wetlands just before touchdown at CMB.

🚢

Laccadive Sea Lanes

Spotting large cargo ships and tankers navigating the busy international shipping lanes near Sri Lanka.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun while flying eastward. It offers the most consistent views of the coastline when approaching Colombo from the west. Keep your camera ready during the final 15 minutes of the flight for the colorful fishing boats in the Negombo lagoon.

Top Activities in Colombo
Route Information

Distance: 4,654 km (2,892 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 29 min

Departure: JED (21.6796, 39.156502)

Arrival: CMB (7.180759906768799, 79.88410186767578)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.