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MAA → AUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Chennai International Airport (Madras) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is preferred as it offers superior views of the dramatic Al Hajar Mountains upon entering the Arabian Peninsula and typically provides a better angle of the Abu Dhabi skyline and the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque during the final descent into AUH.
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Coromandel Coast
Stunning views of the Bay of Bengal shoreline and the Chennai port infrastructure during departure.
Western Ghats
Dramatic ridges and steep escarpments of the Sahyadri range as the plane heads toward the Arabian Sea.
Al Hajar Mountains
The rugged, dark limestone peaks of Oman rising sharply from the desert floor as you enter the peninsula.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
One of the world's largest mosques, often visible with its white marble domes during the final approach.
Yas Island
Clear views of the Yas Marina Circuit and the bright red roof of Ferrari World just before landing.
This is the prime side for the landing approach. If the flight lands toward the west, you will get a panoramic view of the Abu Dhabi city skyline. On daytime flights, keep your window shade down during the mid-ocean crossing to avoid the intense sun, but open it 45 minutes before landing for the Omani mountains and UAE landmarks.
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Chennai Cityscape
Aerial views of the Guindy National Park and the southern suburbs of Chennai immediately after takeoff.
Nilgiri Mountains
The lush, rolling 'Blue Mountains' of the Western Ghats visible as you cross the Indian peninsula.
Malabar Coastline
The transition from the Indian mainland to the Arabian Sea, often crossing near the scenic Karnataka-Kerala border.
Rub' al Khali Edge
The vast, rolling orange dunes of the Empty Quarter visible during the descent into the UAE.
Sit toward the front to avoid engine heat haze. On morning flights, this side will be shaded, providing better conditions for photography of the Indian landscape. Watch for the intricate patterns of the desert dunes as you cross into the UAE, especially during the Golden Hour if you are on an evening flight.
Get eSIMs for India
Get eSIMs for United Arab EmiratesDistance: 2,966 km (1,843 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 57 min
Departure: MAA (12.990005493164062, 80.16929626464844)
Arrival: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Route Type: International
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