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RUH → ADD
Which side of the plane to sit from King Khaled International Airport (Riyadh) to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior visual journey, showcasing the dramatic Tuwaiq Escarpment, the stunning Dahlak Archipelago in the Red Sea, and the unique volcanic terrain of the Danakil Depression.
Tuwaiq Escarpment
A massive, 800-km long natural wall stretching across the central Arabian plateau.
Dahlak Archipelago
A cluster of over 100 coral islands off the coast of Eritrea with turquoise waters.
Danakil Depression
One of the lowest and hottest places on Earth, visible as a vast, colorful tectonic basin.
Semien Mountains
Distant views of Ethiopia's highest peaks and dramatic volcanic plugs.
Addis Ababa Ascent
A panoramic bird's eye view of the sprawling capital nestled against the Entoto Mountains.
The right side is essential for daytime flights to witness the transition from red desert sands to the turquoise Red Sea. Watch closely during the final 30 minutes of the flight for the striking volcanic geology of the Great Rift Valley.
Riyadh Suburbs
Views of the capital's modern infrastructure and rapid desert expansion.
Rub' al Khali Fringes
The northern edge of the world's largest contiguous sand desert.
Bab-el-Mandeb
The strategic 'Gate of Tears' maritime strait between Yemen and Djibouti.
Gulf of Zula
Deep coastal inlets where the African tectonic plate meets the Red Sea.
Eastern Highlands
The rugged cliffs and lush deep valleys of the eastern Ethiopian plateau.
Opt for the left side on morning flights to capture the golden hour light hitting the Arabian desert dunes without the harsh glare of the direct southern sun. This side is also excellent for seeing the maritime traffic near the Horn of Africa.
Distance: 1,964 km (1,220 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 37 min
Departure: RUH (24.957599639892575, 46.69879913330078)
Arrival: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)
Route Type: International
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