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RIY destination photo
CAI destination photo

RIYCAI

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic Hadramaut canyons in Yemen and the majestic peaks of the Sinai Peninsula.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🏜️

Hadramaut Canyons

Massive limestone plateaus and deep, narrow wadis unique to the rugged Yemeni interior.

⛰️

Sarawat Mountains

The rugged, high-altitude peaks lining the western edge of the Arabian Peninsula as you head north.

🏔️

Sinai Peaks

Look for the jagged granite summits including the historic Mount Sinai and Mount Catherine.

🌊

Gulf of Aqaba

A stunning view of the deep rift valley separating the Sinai Peninsula from the Saudi Arabian coast.

🏙️

New Cairo

The sprawling modern developments and urban expansion on the eastern edge of the Egyptian capital.

The right side is unbeatable for the geological wonders of Yemen and the Sinai. Use a window seat to capture the high-contrast shadows in the canyons during late afternoon flights. Keep your camera ready about 45 minutes before landing for the Sinai mountain range.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🌊

Mukalla Coastline

Stunning views of the turquoise Gulf of Aden waters immediately after departure from RIY.

🚢

Red Sea Expanse

Watch the deep blue waters and the busy maritime shipping lanes connecting the Indian Ocean to the Mediterranean.

🏜️

Eastern Desert

The stark, wind-sculpted dunes and rocky outcrops of Egypt's vast eastern wilderness.

⚓

Gulf of Suez

Spot the southern entrance to the Suez Canal with numerous massive cargo ships awaiting transit.

🏛️

Giza Plateau

On clear days during a southern approach into CAI, the Great Pyramids are often visible on the horizon.

Sit on the left for the best chance to see the Pyramids of Giza during the final descent, especially if the aircraft follows a southern arrival pattern. Morning flights provide excellent sunlight on the Egyptian coastline, highlighting coral reefs near the shore.

Top Activities in Cairo
Route Information

Distance: 2,516 km (1,563 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 21 min

Departure: RIY (14.662599563598633, 49.375)

Arrival: CAI (30.12190055847168, 31.40559959411621)

Route Type: International

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