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MED destination photo
ULH destination photo

MEDULH

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers an unparalleled view of the Harrat Khaybar volcanic field, featuring rare white volcanoes and dramatic lava flows that are unique to this region.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🕌

Madinah Cityscape

Aerial views of the holy city and the minarets of the Prophet's Mosque shortly after takeoff.

⛰️

Mount Uhud

The historic red granite mountain range located north of Madinah, significant in Islamic history.

🌋

Harrat Khaybar

One of Saudi Arabia's largest volcanic fields, showcasing vast black basaltic lava flows.

⚪

Jabal Abyad

A rare white volcano made of silica-rich rhyolite, standing in stark contrast to the black lava.

🏜️

Hijaz Mountains

The rugged western mountain spine of the Arabian Peninsula with sharp peaks and deep valleys.

Book a morning flight to witness the long shadows highlighting the texture of the volcanic craters. The white volcanoes are located about halfway through the flight and are most visible from the left side. Avoid wing seats (typically rows 10-20) to ensure an unobstructed view of the ground features.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🏜️

Al-Madinah Desert

Vast golden sand dunes and gravel plains stretching toward the center of the peninsula.

🛤️

Hejaz Railway Path

The historic route of the early 20th-century railway that once connected Damascus to Madinah.

🌵

Sharaan Nature Reserve

As you descend into Al-Ula, the eastern side reveals protected canyons and red sandstone plateaus.

🪨

Elephant Rock (Distance)

Depending on the landing pattern, you may spot the iconic monolithic sandstone formations of Al-Ula.

The right side is excellent for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. Keep an eye out during the final 10 minutes of the flight as the plane descends over the dramatic sandstone canyons near the airport. Use a polarized lens if taking photos to cut through the desert atmospheric haze.

Top Activities in Al-Ula
Route Information

Distance: 266 km (165 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 27 min

Departure: MED (24.5534, 39.705101)

Arrival: ULH (26.48, 38.1288888889)

Route Type: Domestic

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