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MHD → SHJ
Which side of the plane to sit from Mashhad International Airport (Mashhad) to Sharjah International Airport (Sharjah)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the diverse Iranian landscape, including the salt deserts, the dramatic coastline of the Persian Gulf, and the iconic islands like Qeshm before landing near the Dubai-Sharjah skyline.
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Binalud Range
The highest mountains in Khorasan province visible to the northwest during the initial climb.
Dasht-e Kavir
Views of the Great Salt Desert's mesmerizing polygonal salt crusts and seasonal marshes.
Qeshm Island
The largest island in the Persian Gulf, famous for its unique Hara forests and erosive geology.
Strait of Hormuz
The narrow, strategically vital waterway separating Iran from the Arabian Peninsula.
Dubai Skyline
On clear days, the Burj Khalifa and the Downtown Dubai skyline are visible in the distance during descent into SHJ.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be on the opposite side, providing perfect lighting for photography of the Persian Gulf. This side is particularly rewarding during the descent into Sharjah, as you often get a clear view of the sprawling urban landscape of the Northern Emirates and the turquoise waters of the coast. Use a polarising filter if possible to cut through the haze over the Gulf.
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Imam Reza Shrine
Aerial view of the massive golden-domed complex in central Mashhad shortly after takeoff.
Kuh-e Sorkh
The red-tinted mountain ranges south of Mashhad providing a rugged terrain contrast.
Dasht-e Lut Edge
The western fringes of the Lut Desert, showcasing vast arid basins and unique wind-eroded ridges.
Hajar Mountains
As the plane approaches the UAE, the jagged limestone peaks of the Hajar range appear to the east.
Sharjah Cityscape
Direct views of the Al Majaz Waterfront and the lagoons during the final approach phase.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun while viewing the Iranian plateau. Keep an eye out for the Imam Reza Shrine immediately after takeoff if the flight departs towards the south. In the winter, the higher Zagros peaks on this side may be capped with snow, creating a stunning contrast with the desert floor.
Get eSIMs for Iran
Get eSIMs for United Arab EmiratesDistance: 1,275 km (792 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 42 min
Departure: MHD (36.235198974609375, 59.64099884033203)
Arrival: SHJ (25.32859992980957, 55.5172004699707)
Route Type: International
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