Loading map...
RUH → DWC
Which side of the plane to sit from King Khaled International Airport (Riyadh) to Al Maktoum International Airport (Dubai)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the Riyadh urban landscape upon departure and the iconic Palm Jebel Ali and Expo City during the descent into Al Maktoum.
Search flights from RUH to DWC
Riyadh Cityscape
Excellent views of the northern Riyadh expansion and the King Abdullah Financial District on takeoff.
Rub' al Khali Fringes
The northern edge of the Empty Quarter, showing vast, undulating sand formations.
Sabkha Salt Flats
Glistening white salt crusts that create a stark contrast with the surrounding desert sand.
Palm Jebel Ali
The massive palm-shaped artificial archipelago clearly visible during the approach to DWC.
Expo City Dubai
The unique architectural pavilions and the Al Wasl Plaza dome from the 2020 World Expo.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to witness the desert sunset. It provides the most 'iconic' Dubai views, specifically the Palm Jebel Ali, which is located very close to DWC's flight path. In winter, the air is clearer, making the contrast of the salt flats near the border much more vivid.
Book Hotels in DubaiAd-Dahna Desert
Cross the narrow strip of high-red dunes that connects the two major deserts of Saudi Arabia.
Arabian Gulf Coastline
Glances of the turquoise Gulf waters as the flight crosses into UAE territory.
Jebel Ali Port
A bird's eye view of the massive logistics hub and deep-water harbor before landing.
Dubai Marina Skyline
Distant but impressive views of the world's tallest residential block.
Choose the left side for morning departures to avoid direct solar glare. Keep an eye out for the distinct transition between the red sands of Ad-Dahna and the lighter coastal plains. During the final approach, the left side provides the best perspective of the industrial scale of the Jebel Ali Free Zone.
Get eSIMs for Saudi Arabia
Get eSIMs for United Arab EmiratesDistance: 853 km (530 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min
Departure: RUH (24.957599639892575, 46.69879913330078)
Arrival: DWC (24.896356, 55.161389)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.