Loading map...
RUH → URY
Which side of the plane to sit from King Khaled International Airport (Riyadh) to Gurayat Domestic Airport (Guriat)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the Great Nefud's unique red sand dunes and a better view of the historical settlements in the Al-Jauf region.
RUH Airport Complex
A full aerial view of the massive King Khaled International Airport terminals and runway layout upon departure.
The Great Nefud Desert
Expansive vistas of the Al-Nafud Al-Kabir, famous for its high, crescent-shaped red sand dunes.
Sakaka Landmarks
Aerial glimpses of the historic Za'abal Castle and the lush date palm groves of the Sakaka oasis.
Circular Irrigation
Distinctive green geometric crop circles created by center-pivot irrigation systems in the desert.
Jordanian Border
As you descend into Gurayat, see the rugged transition of the landscape toward the Jordanian frontier.
For the best experience, book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, which illuminates the red sands of the Great Nefud brilliantly. This side is consistently better for seeing the urban centers and historic sites of the Al-Jauf province during the descent.
Riyadh Outskirts
View the rapid northern expansion of the capital as you climb away from King Khaled International.
Tuwaiq Escarpment
The dramatic cliff edges and fossil-rich plateaus that characterize the central Najd region.
Volcanic Basalt Fields
Scattered patches of dark, ancient volcanic rock (Harrat) contrasting sharply with the desert sands.
Sunsets
On late afternoon flights, this side provides spectacular views of the sun setting over the Arabian Peninsula.
Choose this side for evening flights to catch the sunset. It is also better for spotting the unique 'Edge of the World' cliff formations shortly after takeoff if the flight path tracks slightly west. Use a polarized lens if photographing to cut through the desert haze.
Distance: 1,169 km (726 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min
Departure: RUH (24.957599639892575, 46.69879913330078)
Arrival: URY (31.412413, 37.278898)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.