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RUH → HBE
Which side of the plane to sit from King Khaled International Airport (Riyadh) to Borg El Arab International Airport (Alexandria)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior visual transition from the golden sands of the Arabian Peninsula to the lush green sprawl of the Nile Delta, followed by an iconic coastal approach over Alexandria's Mediterranean shoreline.
Gulf of Aqaba
Stunning vistas of the deep blue rift where the Sinai Peninsula meets the Arabian landmass.
Sinai Peaks
The dramatic, jagged mountain terrain of the Sinai Peninsula, often featuring sharp shadows in the late afternoon.
Nile Delta Greenery
A breathtaking view of the massive green triangle formed by the Nile's distributaries, contrasting sharply with the surrounding Sahara.
Alexandria Shoreline
The Mediterranean coast, including the historic city of Alexandria and the Qaitbay Citadel, visible during the descent into HBE.
Lake Mariout
The complex of salt lakes and wetlands located just south of Alexandria that provides a reflective backdrop for landing.
The right side is best for afternoon flights as the sun will be on the opposite side, providing perfect lighting for the Nile Delta. Keep your camera ready about 30 minutes before landing to capture the vivid green-to-blue transition of the coast.
Ad-Dahna Desert
Vast stretches of red sand dunes and ancient riverbeds visible shortly after departing the Riyadh plateau.
Hejaz Mountains
The rugged, dark volcanic peaks and granite ridges that run parallel to the Red Sea coastline in western Saudi Arabia.
Suez Canal Southern Entrance
A view of the Gulf of Suez and the southern tip of the canal where maritime traffic gathers to transit toward Europe.
New Cairo Outskirts
The rapid urban expansion and distinct geometric patterns of Egypt's New Administrative Capital emerging from the desert.
Choose this side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. It is particularly good for viewing the industrial landscape of the Suez region. Watch for the sudden boundary where the Eastern Desert meets the Nile's fertile valley.
Distance: 1,794 km (1,115 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 24 min
Departure: RUH (24.957599639892575, 46.69879913330078)
Arrival: HBE (30.91769981384277, 29.696399688720703)
Route Type: International
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