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KUF → DWC
Which side of the plane to sit from Kurumoch International Airport (Samara) to Al Maktoum International Airport (Dubai)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the most dramatic geographical features including the Greater Caucasus range, the rugged Zagros Mountains of Iran, and a clear view of the Dubai coastline and Palm Jebel Ali during the descent into Al Maktoum.
Caucasus Mountains
Spectacular views of the snow-peaked Greater Caucasus range, potentially spotting Mount Elbrus to the far west.
Baku & Absheron Peninsula
The oil-rich coast of Azerbaijan and the modern architectural sprawl of Baku along the Caspian shore.
Zagros Mountains
Incredible folded rock formations and deep canyons of the Zagros range stretching across western Iran.
Persian Gulf Coast
The transition from the Iranian coastline to the clear blue waters of the Gulf as you cross toward the UAE.
Palm Jebel Ali
Direct views of the Palm Jebel Ali and the industrial marvel of Jebel Ali Port during the final approach to DWC.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be on the opposite side, providing perfect lighting for the Caucasus and Zagros mountains. On the descent into DWC, the right side usually provides the best view of the man-made islands and the Expo 2020 site. Ensure you have a window seat away from the wing to fully capture the mountain folds in Iran.
Volga River Delta
View the intricate network of the Volga River as it flows into the Caspian Sea shortly after departure from Samara.
Caspian Sea Expanse
Aerial perspective of the world's largest inland body of water, often appearing a deep turquoise from high altitude.
Alborz Mountain Range
The northern Iranian peaks, including the distant snow-capped volcanic cone of Mount Damavand on clear days.
Dasht-e Kavir Desert
Stunning salt crust patterns and golden dunes of the Great Salt Desert in central Iran.
Dubai Skyline
Distal views of the Burj Khalifa and the Downtown Dubai area as the flight enters UAE airspace.
Choose the left side for morning flights to enjoy the sunrise over the Caspian Sea, though be prepared for direct glare. This side is better for seeing the vastness of the Iranian deserts and the Alborz range. Use a polarizing filter for photos to cut through the atmospheric haze common over the Persian Gulf.
Distance: 3,208 km (1,993 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 46 min
Departure: KUF (53.504901885986, 50.16429901123)
Arrival: DWC (24.896356, 55.161389)
Route Type: International
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