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KWI β AUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Kuwait International Airport (Kuwait) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most scenic transition from the deep blues of the Persian Gulf to the intricate turquoise coastal islands and modern skyline of Abu Dhabi during the final approach.
Persian Gulf
Expansive views of the turquoise and navy waters, often filled with large tankers and cargo ships.
Offshore Oil Rigs
Dozens of industrial platforms and gas flares visible across the maritime border zones.
Qatari Peninsula
Distant views of the northern tip of Qatar as the flight path curves toward the UAE.
Dubai Skyline
On clear days, the Burj Khalifa and the towering skyscrapers of Dubai are visible in the distance.
Saadiyat Island
The iconic silver dome of the Louvre Abu Dhabi is visible amidst the cultural district's white sands.
Mangrove National Park
A striking contrast of deep green mangrove forests against the desert city landscape.
Sit on the left (port) side for the best chance to see the Abu Dhabi city center and the Corniche. Flights departing KWI in the late afternoon provide spectacular sunset views over the Gulf, though morning flights offer the clearest visibility of the seabed and coral reefs near the UAE coast. Use a polarizing lens if photographing to cut through the persistent coastal haze.
Kuwaiti Desert
The stark, arid landscape south of Kuwait City, marked by oil infrastructure and remote roads.
Saudi Coastline
The rugged interface where the Arabian desert meets the sea, featuring interesting salt flats.
Sabkha Salt Flats
Distinctive white crystalline patches visible in the depressions of the desert terrain.
Yas Island
The bright red roof of Ferrari World and the Yas Marina F1 Circuit are prominent during descent.
AUH Airport Perimeter
Excellent views of the massive new Midfield Terminal complex just before touchdown.
The right side is ideal for passengers interested in desert geomorphology and industrial architecture. During the final approach into AUH (depending on wind direction), the right side often looks directly down onto the Yas Island attractions. This side is generally better for avoiding direct glare from the sun on southbound morning flights.
Distance: 850 km (528 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min
Departure: KWI (29.226600646972656, 47.96889877319336)
Arrival: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Route Type: International
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