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RIY → AUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Mukalla International Airport (Mukalla) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most dramatic views of the Rub' al Khali's towering sand dunes and the deep wadis of the Hadhramaut region, offering a classic Arabian desert experience.
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Mukalla Coastline
Aerial view of the rugged cliffs and white beaches where the city of Mukalla meets the Gulf of Aden.
Hadhramaut Canyons
Deep, ancient limestone plateaus and carved-out wadi systems that define the Yemeni interior.
The Empty Quarter
Uninterrupted vistas of the Rub' al Khali, featuring massive star-shaped dunes and orange sand waves.
Liwa Oasis Edge
The northern boundary of the great desert where civilization begins to re-emerge in the UAE.
Choose the left side for morning flights to have the sun behind you, illuminating the red dunes of the Empty Quarter perfectly. For evening arrivals into AUH, this side often catches the glowing desert sunset. Watch for the 'Hadhramaut' wadis shortly after takeoff as they offer incredible geological textures.
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Gulf of Aden
Deep blue maritime views as the plane tracks along the southern edge of the Arabian Peninsula.
Salalah Hinterlands
The transition zone between the green Dhofar mountains and the inland desert plains of Oman.
Sabkha Flats
Large, shimmering white salt flats near the border of Oman and the UAE.
Abu Dhabi Mangroves
Dense green mangrove forests and turquoise channels visible during the final descent into AUH.
The right side is excellent during the Khareef season (July-August) for potential views of the green mists near the Omani border. On landing, this side frequently provides views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the island clusters of Abu Dhabi if the wind requires a northern approach.
Book Hotels in Abu DhabiDistance: 1,219 km (757 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 38 min
Departure: RIY (14.662599563598633, 49.375)
Arrival: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Route Type: International
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