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NBO → AUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the Great Rift Valley's escarpments and the vast, undulating orange dunes of the Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter) desert during the cruise phase.
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Mount Kenya
Kenya's highest peak is often visible to the north shortly after departing Nairobi's airspace.
Ethiopian Highlands
Stunning views of the rugged escarpments and deep canyons that define the Horn of Africa's interior.
Bab-el-Mandeb Strait
The narrow gateway between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, separating Africa from the Arabian Peninsula.
Rub' al Khali
The 'Empty Quarter' features some of the world's most spectacular and massive linear sand dunes.
Abu Dhabi City
On the standard approach, the left side often catches glimpses of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the city skyline.
For the most dramatic lighting over the Ethiopian Highlands and the Arabian deserts, choose a morning flight. The sun will be behind you or overhead, highlighting the textures of the terrain. If flying in the late afternoon, the left side will face the sunset, providing a golden glow over the Rub' al Khali dunes. Request a seat away from the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the Great Rift Valley escarpments.
Get eSIMs for Kenya
Get eSIMs for United Arab EmiratesAberdare Range
Lush forested mountains and waterfalls visible shortly after takeoff from Jomo Kenyatta International.
Danakil Depression
One of the hottest and lowest points on Earth, showcasing unique geological formations near the Ethiopian border.
Gulf of Aden Coast
The turquoise waters and rocky shorelines of northern Somalia and southern Yemen.
Al Hajar Mountains
The rugged limestone peaks that form the backbone of the eastern Arabian Peninsula.
Yas Island
The distinctive red roof of Ferrari World and the Yas Marina Circuit are often visible on final descent into AUH.
The right side is excellent for spotting coastal transitions and the unique desert geography of the Afar region. On evening flights, this side remains cooler as it faces away from the setting sun. During the final approach into Abu Dhabi, keep an eye out for the intricate mangrove forests and man-made islands like Yas and Saadiyat that characterize the UAE coastline.
Book Hotels in Abu DhabiDistance: 3,443 km (2,139 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 3 min
Departure: NBO (-1.31923997402, 36.9277992249)
Arrival: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Route Type: International
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