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RUH → CAI
Which side of the plane to sit from King Khaled International Airport (Riyadh) to Cairo International Airport (Cairo)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the Sinai Peninsula's rugged peaks, the vital Suez Canal, and a higher probability of seeing the Great Pyramids of Giza during the final approach into Cairo.
Riyadh Skyline
Excellent views of the Kingdom Centre and Al Faisaliyah Center during the initial climb.
Hijaz Mountains
Dramatic views of the jagged mountain ranges in western Saudi Arabia before reaching the sea.
Sinai Peninsula
Aerial perspective of the southern Sinai mountains, including the area around Mount Sinai.
Suez Canal
Spot cargo ships and tankers transiting through the Gulf of Suez and the southern canal entrance.
New Administrative Capital
Overview of Egypt's massive new urban expansion project including the Iconic Tower.
Pyramids of Giza
Often visible on the right-hand side if the aircraft circles from the north for a southern landing.
Cairo International
A clear view of the airport layout and Terminals 2 and 3 during the final descent.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be on the opposite side. To see the Pyramids, be alert during the last 10 minutes of flight; they appear small on the horizon but are unmistakable. Use a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion.
Najd Plateau
Expansive views of the central Arabian desert landscapes shortly after take-off.
Red Sea Crossing
Deep blue waters contrasting with the golden sands of the Saudi and Egyptian coasts.
Red Sea Resorts
Distant views of coastal cities like Hurghada and the El Gouna region.
Eastern Desert
The rugged, mountainous terrain of Egypt's desert featuring deep wadis and ancient geological formations.
The Nile River
The sudden transition from arid desert to the lush green vegetation of the Nile Valley.
Old Cairo
Views of the historic districts and dense urban fabric of southern Cairo on arrival.
On morning flights, the left side is shaded, providing clearer views without sun glare. As you approach Cairo, look for the sharp 'green line' where the irrigation from the Nile suddenly ends and the desert begins.
Distance: 1,612 km (1,002 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 9 min
Departure: RUH (24.957599639892575, 46.69879913330078)
Arrival: CAI (30.12190055847168, 31.40559959411621)
Route Type: International
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