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RIY → SAH
Which side of the plane to sit from Mukalla International Airport (Mukalla) to Sana'a International Airport (Sanaa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a superior vantage point of the dramatic Hadramaut canyons, the edge of the Empty Quarter desert, and the spectacular mountain approach into the high-altitude Sana'a basin.
Wadi Hadhramaut
Deep limestone canyons and fertile valley floors that appear as a labyrinthine network from above.
Shibam Skyline
A glimpse of the 'Manhattan of the Desert' with its famous ancient mud-brick skyscrapers standing in the desert.
Marib Plains
The historic region of the Queen of Sheba, featuring the modern dam and expansive desert landscapes.
Sarawat Mountains
Sharp, jagged peaks rising over 3,000 meters as you cross into the central Yemeni highlands.
Sana'a Basin
The iconic gingerbread-style architecture and the dense urban sprawl of the high-altitude capital city.
The descent into Sana'a is one of the most scenic in the Middle East. Sit on the right to see the dramatic mountain ridges. Mid-day flights provide the best lighting for capturing the depth of the canyons and the textures of the highlands.
Mukalla Port
Stunning views of the turquoise Gulf of Aden and the historic port city nestled against limestone cliffs.
Bir Ali Craters
Distinct volcanic formations and the unique 'Black Mountain' crater near the coastal shoreline.
Abyan Shores
Extensive sandy coastlines and the agricultural deltas where seasonal rivers meet the southern sea.
Best viewed during morning flights to avoid direct sun glare from the south. Keep an eye out for the distinct transition from the blue ocean to the rugged volcanic terrain of the southern coastal strip.
Distance: 561 km (349 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 56 min
Departure: RIY (14.662599563598633, 49.375)
Arrival: SAH (15.476300239562988, 44.21969985961914)
Route Type: Domestic
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