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KIH β DXB
Which side of the plane to sit from Kish International Airport (Kish Island) to Dubai International Airport (Dubai)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most iconic views of the Dubai skyline, including the Burj Khalifa, the Palm Jumeirah, and The World Islands during the approach into DXB.
Kish Coral Reefs
Crystal clear turquoise waters and coral formations surrounding the western tip of Kish Island.
The World Islands
The unique archipelago shaped like a world map, best seen from the altitude of a final approach.
Downtown Dubai
Unobstructed views of the Burj Khalifa and the dense cluster of skyscrapers along Sheikh Zayed Road.
Palm Jumeirah
The iconic tree-shaped man-made island is often visible depending on the specific landing pattern.
Port Rashid
The historic gateway and cruise terminal of Dubai as the plane makes its final turn toward the runway.
This is the premier side for photography. Request a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. For the best experience, book a late afternoon flight to see the sunset reflecting off the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai skyline. During the standard approach into DXB (Runway 12L/R), the city landmarks will be perfectly framed on this side.
Kish Eastern Shore
Aerial view of the resort-heavy eastern coast of Kish Island immediately after takeoff.
Gulf Shipping Lanes
High-density maritime traffic and massive oil tankers traversing the narrow Persian Gulf corridors.
Sharjah Skyline
Views of Sharjah's high-rises and the Al Noor Mosque as the plane descends into the UAE.
Inner Desert Dunes
The rolling red sand dunes of the northern emirates stretching toward the Hajar Mountains.
Choose this side if you are flying during the morning to keep the sun behind you. It is also the better side for viewing the industrial scale of the UAE's northern ports and the transition from sea to the vast Arabian desert.
Distance: 198 km (123 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 20 min
Departure: KIH (26.5261993408, 53.9802017212)
Arrival: DXB (25.252799987800003, 55.3643989563)
Route Type: International
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