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MSQ destination photo
AUH destination photo

MSQAUH

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic Caucasus and Zagros mountain ranges, as well as a prime view of Abu Dhabi's iconic landmarks like Yas Island and the Grand Mosque during the landing approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Greater Caucasus

Spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, potentially including Mount Elbrus, depending on the specific Russian transit corridor.

⛰️

Zagros Mountains

Experience some of the world's best geological fold structures with long, parallel limestone ridges stretching across Iran.

💧

Persian Gulf

As you leave the Iranian coast, watch for the turquoise waters, coral reefs, and numerous oil platforms of the Gulf.

🎢

Yas Island

Spot the iconic bright red roof of Ferrari World and the Yas Marina Circuit during the final approach into AUH.

🕌

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Often visible on the right side during the landing pattern, showcasing its white marble domes and minarets.

The right side is the 'scenic winner' for this route. For late afternoon flights, you'll catch the 'golden hour' lighting up the Zagros Mountains. Keep your camera ready during the last 15 minutes of the flight, as the approach into Abu Dhabi often passes directly over the coastal islands and major landmarks.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Caspian Sea Coast

Witness the vast blue expanse of the world's largest inland sea as you transition from Russian to Iranian airspace.

🏔️

Alborz Mountains

Gaze at the high-altitude peaks of northern Iran, which separate the lush Caspian coast from the central plateau.

🏜️

Dasht-e Kavir

View the 'Great Salt Desert' of Iran with its unique, swirling white salt crusts and arid beauty.

🏙️

Dubai Skyline

On clear nights, the distant glimmer of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai's urban sprawl is visible to the East before descent.

The left side is preferable for morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun glare. It provides a great perspective of the Caspian Sea's eastern reaches and the vast Iranian deserts. Look out for the intricate patterns of the salt flats midway through the flight.

Top Activities in Abu Dhabi
Route Information

Distance: 3,950 km (2,454 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 39 min

Departure: MSQ (53.882499694824, 28.030700683594)

Arrival: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)

Route Type: International

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