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PVG → DXB
Which side of the plane to sit from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (Shanghai) to Dubai International Airport (Dubai)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers spectacular views of the rugged Tibetan Plateau and the Karakoram range, followed by the dramatic Zagros Mountains of Iran and a high-probability view of the iconic Dubai skyline including the Burj Khalifa upon descent.
Tibetan Plateau
A breathtaking expanse of the 'Roof of the World,' featuring high-altitude lakes and snow-capped peaks of the Kunlun range.
Karakoram Peaks
On a clear day, witness the massive glaciated terrain of the Karakoram, including views toward the world's second-highest peaks.
Zagros Mountains
The incredible folded rock formations and deep canyons of western Iran, providing some of the most unique geological views on Earth.
The Persian Gulf
Sparkling turquoise waters dotted with oil rigs and tankers as the aircraft begins its final descent into the UAE.
Dubai Skyline
Unmatched views of the Burj Khalifa, the Frame, and the dense skyscrapers of Sheikh Zayed Road during the landing pattern.
The right side is the winner for this route, particularly for the approach into DXB. Most flights land facing northwest, placing the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai directly out of the right-side windows. For day flights, the geological textures of Iran are much more visible on this side. Ensure you have a window clear of the wing for the best mountain photography.
Yangtze River Delta
Aerial view of the winding Yangtze River and the massive industrial landscape of eastern China shortly after takeoff.
Emei Shan & Sichuan Basin
If the flight path trends south, catch glimpses of the sacred peaks of Sichuan and the dense fog-prone basins.
Southern Himalayan Vista
Distal views of the southern slopes of the world's highest mountain range, appearing as a jagged white line on the horizon.
Thar Desert
The arid landscapes of the Great Indian Desert on the border of India and Pakistan, characterized by vast sand dunes.
Gulf of Oman Coastline
The stark contrast between the deep blue of the Arabian Sea and the craggy, sun-bleached cliffs of the Omani coast.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct glare from the sun when flying westward. This side is better for spotting the lush greenery of Southern China and the coastal entries into the Arabian Peninsula. Look out for the Musandam Peninsula's 'fjords' if the approach path curves from the south.
Distance: 6,448 km (4,007 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 35 min
Departure: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)
Arrival: DXB (25.252799987800003, 55.3643989563)
Route Type: International
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