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LXR → RUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Luxor International Airport (Luxor) to King Khaled International Airport (Riyadh)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a front-row seat to the ancient Luxor temples at takeoff, the rugged Hijaz mountain ranges, and the iconic skyscrapers of Riyadh during the final approach.
Ancient Luxor
Unmatched aerial views of the East Bank, including the sprawling Karnak and Luxor Temple complexes.
Hijaz Mountains
Dramatic, jagged mountain peaks that rise sharply from the coastal plain as you enter Saudi airspace.
Ad-Dahna Desert
Vast stretches of reddish sand dunes and the characteristic arid plateaus of central Saudi Arabia.
Tuwaiq Escarpment
The magnificent 'Edge of the World' limestone cliffs that slice through the landscape near Riyadh.
Riyadh City Center
Direct views of the Kingdom Centre and Al Faisaliyah Center if the aircraft approaches RUH from the south.
The right side is the clear winner for landmark spotting. You'll see the temples shortly after takeoff and the Riyadh skyline before landing. In the winter months, the low sun angle provides beautiful shadows over the Tuwaiq Escarpment. Be aware that the afternoon sun will be directly hitting this side of the plane, so stay hydrated and use a polarizing filter if taking photos.
Nile River Valley
A striking contrast of lush green cultivation against the stark desert sands immediately after leaving Luxor.
Red Sea Crossing
Views of the deep blue waters and the intricate coral reef patterns along the Saudi Arabian coastline.
Harrat Khaybar
Ancient volcanic fields featuring dark basalt flows and cinder cones visible in the distance across the desert.
Northern Riyadh
The geometric patterns of Riyadh's expanding northern residential districts and urban sprawl.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Nile's green ribbon. During afternoon flights, this side is also shaded from the direct sun, making photography through the window much easier and reducing glare. Keep an eye out for the Gulf of Suez far to the north during the mid-flight crossing.
Distance: 1,408 km (875 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 53 min
Departure: LXR (25.671, 32.7066)
Arrival: RUH (24.957599639892575, 46.69879913330078)
Route Type: International
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