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RIY destination photo
JED destination photo

RIYJED

Our Recommendation
8.4

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a dramatic perspective on the geological diversity of the Arabian Peninsula, from the limestone canyons of Hadramaut to the towering peaks of the Asir region and the edge of the Empty Quarter.

Right Side Highlights
8.4
⛰️

Hadramaut Plateaus

Distinctive flat-topped mountains and deep wadis characteristic of eastern Yemen's interior.

🏜️

Rub' al Khali Edge

The southern fringes of the 'Empty Quarter', showing vast, orange sand dunes meeting rocky terrain.

🏛️

Najran Valley

A historic oasis region featuring unique traditional mud-brick architecture visible in the mountain folds.

☁️

Sarawat Mountains

The high-altitude spine of Saudi Arabia, often featuring clouds and greener terrain than the surrounding desert.

🧗

Hejaz Escarpment

Sharp, dramatic cliffs where the high interior plateau drops steeply toward the coastal plains.

The right side is ideal for afternoon departures to keep the sun behind the aircraft. It offers the most consistent geological variety, including the transition from Yemeni canyons to the rolling sand dunes of the Saudi desert interior.

Left Side Highlights
7.9
🌊

Gulf of Aden

Expansive views of the deep blue waters of the Gulf immediately following departure from Mukalla.

🌋

Volcanic Fields

Ancient, dark volcanic landscapes and basalt flows visible in the southern regions of Yemen.

🌾

Tihama Coastal Plain

The wide, sandy lowlands that stretch between the mountains and the Red Sea shore.

🪸

Red Sea Lagoons

Stunning turquoise reefs and shallow coastal waters as the plane approaches Jeddah from the south.

⛲

King Fahd's Fountain

The iconic Jeddah landmark, the world's tallest fountain, is often visible during the final descent.

Choose the left side for morning flights to enjoy the coastline without the glare of the afternoon sun. This side is superior for spotting the city of Jeddah and the intricate coral formations of the Red Sea during the final approach.

Top Activities in Jeddah
Route Information

Distance: 1,331 km (827 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 46 min

Departure: RIY (14.662599563598633, 49.375)

Arrival: JED (21.6796, 39.156502)

Route Type: International

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