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NJF β SHJ
Which side of the plane to sit from Al Najaf International Airport (Najaf) to Sharjah International Airport (Sharjah)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a front-row seat to the rapid urban development of the Gulf, featuring aerial views of Kuwait City, the Bahraini archipelago, and the futuristic skyline of Doha before the final approach into the UAE.
Kuwait City
As the plane heads south, the iconic Kuwait Towers and the dense urban sprawl of the capital are often clearly visible.
Bahrain Archipelago
A stunning view of the island nation of Bahrain, including the King Fahd Causeway linking it to Saudi Arabia.
Doha & The Pearl
Look for the distinctive man-made island 'The Pearl' and the glittering skyscrapers of the West Bay district.
Dubai Skyline
During the descent into Sharjah, the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai skyline often appear on the horizon to the south.
Saudi Coastline
The intricate patterns of salt flats and industrial ports along the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.
The right side is the definitive choice for city spotting. To see the Bahrain-Saudi causeway and Doha clearly, ensure you have a window seat away from the wing. On arrival at Sharjah (SHJ), if the plane approaches from the west, the right side offers views of the Palm Islands and Dubai's massive skyscrapers.
Euphrates River
Visible shortly after takeoff from Najaf, the river creates a green ribbon through the arid Iraqi landscape.
Zagros Mountains
On clear days, the distant, snow-capped or rugged peaks of the Iranian mountain range are visible across the Gulf.
Kish Island
A prominent Iranian resort island known for its unique oval shape and turquoise waters near the flight path.
Gulf Shipping Lanes
Watch the heavy maritime traffic of tankers and cargo ships navigating the narrow waters of the Persian Gulf.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun on the right. It offers a more serene view of the open sea and distant Iranian topography. Early in the flight, look for the contrast between the fertile Euphrates basin and the surrounding desert.
Distance: 1,312 km (815 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 45 min
Departure: NJF (31.989853000000004, 44.404317)
Arrival: SHJ (25.32859992980957, 55.5172004699707)
Route Type: International
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