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RUH destination photo
CAI destination photo

RUHCAI

Our Recommendation
8.5

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

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.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏜️

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.

Top Activities in Cairo
Route Information

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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