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JED → DWC
Which side of the plane to sit from King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah) to Al Maktoum International Airport (Dubai)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a strategic vantage point for the most iconic landmarks, including the Hejaz mountain range after takeoff, distant views of Riyadh, and the world-famous Dubai skyline and artificial islands during the descent into DWC.
Hejaz Mountains
Dramatic, jagged peaks rising sharply from the coastal plain shortly after departing Jeddah.
Riyadh Skyline
A distant but clear view of the Kingdom Centre and Al Faisaliyah Center if the flight path tracks north of the capital.
Bahrain and Qatar
Vivid turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf and the distinctive coastal outlines of the Bahraini archipelago and Qatari peninsula.
The Palm Jumeirah
The iconic palm-shaped island is often visible during the high-altitude descent sequence into the Dubai area.
Downtown Dubai
The towering Burj Khalifa and the dense cluster of skyscrapers along Sheikh Zayed Road visible during the final turn.
Select the left side for night flights to capture the glittering lights of Riyadh and Dubai. On afternoon flights, the sun will be on the opposite side, providing perfect lighting for photography of the Gulf coastline without glare. During the approach to DWC, look for the 'World Islands' just north of the Palm Jumeirah.
Ad-Dahna Desert
A narrow strip of high-altitude red sand dunes that connects the great northern and southern deserts.
Oil Infrastructure
Vast industrial complexes and geometric patterns of oil fields visible across Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province.
Palm Jebel Ali
The second, larger palm island located very close to Al Maktoum International Airport, visible during final approach.
Jebel Ali Port
One of the world's largest man-made harbors, featuring massive container terminals and shipping traffic.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the direct eastern sun. It offers a unique perspective on the sheer scale of the desert interior and the massive industrial scale of the Jebel Ali area. Keep an eye out for the red sand ripples of the Ad-Dahna, which are particularly striking when the sun is low.
Distance: 1,672 km (1,039 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 14 min
Departure: JED (21.6796, 39.156502)
Arrival: DWC (24.896356, 55.161389)
Route Type: International
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