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JED → HOF
Which side of the plane to sit from King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah) to Al Ahsa Airport (Al-ahsa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the rugged Sarawat mountain range, the southern outskirts of Riyadh, and the breathtaking green expanse of the Al-Ahsa Oasis during the final descent.
Jeddah Skyline
Panoramic views of the city's coastal developments and the Jeddah Corniche immediately after takeoff.
Sarawat Escarpment
Dramatic rocky ridges and deep canyons as the plane crosses from the coast to the central plateau.
Riyadh Horizon
The sprawling capital city and its iconic skyscrapers are frequently visible to the south mid-route.
Tuwaiq Cliffs
The massive Tuwaiq Escarpment, a natural limestone ridge that defines the central Najd region.
Al-Ahsa Oasis
A stunning transition from desert to a sea of millions of date palms as you approach Hofuf.
The right side is essential for viewing the Al-Ahsa Oasis, the largest in the world, during descent. Try to book a window seat behind the wing to capture the scale of the palm groves. Afternoon flights offer the best shadows for highlighting the dramatic relief of the Tuwaiq cliffs.
Red Sea Shoreline
Aerial views of the coral reefs and coastal lagoons stretching north of Jeddah during the initial climb.
Circular Irrigation
Pockets of bright green pivot irrigation farms that contrast sharply against the beige desert floor.
Ad-Dahna Sandstone
The narrow strip of reddish sand dunes that connects the Great Nafud and the Rub al Khali deserts.
Northern Sarawat
The jagged peaks and dry wadis of the Hijaz mountains shortly after departing the Tihamah plain.
Sit on the left if you are flying in the late afternoon to avoid the direct southern sun. Look for the distinct geometric patterns of desert agriculture mid-flight. In the morning, this side provides excellent soft lighting for photos of the red sand dunes without glare.
Distance: 1,127 km (700 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 30 min
Departure: JED (21.6796, 39.156502)
Arrival: HOF (25.28529930114746, 49.48519897460938)
Route Type: Domestic
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