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SHJ destination photo
RUH destination photo

SHJRUH

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for the Persian Gulf coastline, Dubai's iconic offshore developments, and the dramatic transition from the azure waters to the vibrant red dunes of the Ad-Dahna Desert.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏝️

The Palm & World Islands

On clear days, the intricate shapes of Dubai's man-made islands are visible as the flight path parallels the UAE coast.

🌊

Persian Gulf Coastline

Stunning views of the turquoise shallow waters and the transition to the deep blue of the Gulf.

🏗️

Dammam & Al Khobar

As you enter Saudi airspace, view the sprawling coastal metropolitan area and the King Fahd Causeway.

🔴

Ad-Dahna Red Dunes

A striking narrow strip of high-altitude red sand dunes that separates the Eastern Province from the Najd plateau.

🧗

Tuwaiq Escarpment

Dramatic limestone cliffs and plateaus that define the geography around the Riyadh region during the final approach.

The right side is best for morning flights when the sun illuminates the coastline and desert dunes from behind. Request a window seat forward of the wing to get an unobstructed view of the Dubai skyline and the coastal islands. The transition from the sea to the red sands of Ad-Dahna is a major highlight roughly 45 minutes into the flight.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

Sharjah City Center

Aerial views of the Khalid Lagoon and the dense urban architecture of Sharjah immediately after takeoff.

⛰️

Hajar Mountain Range

In the distance to the south, the rugged, dark peaks of the Hajar mountains provide a sharp contrast to the desert floor.

🏜️

Rub' al Khali Fringe

Expansive views of the northern reaches of the Empty Quarter, showing endless rolling sand dunes.

🏭

Khurais Oil Field

Spot the vast industrial infrastructure and occasional gas flares of one of Saudi Arabia's major inland oil fields.

🏡

Riyadh Residential Expansion

The sprawling suburban growth and distinct grid patterns of eastern Riyadh as the plane descends.

Sit on the left for late afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is ideal for spotting the vastness of the Arabian interior and the industrial scale of the energy sector. Keep an eye out for the distinct circular irrigation farms that appear as green dots in the desert landscape.

Top Activities in Riyadh
Route Information

Distance: 888 km (552 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 29 min

Departure: SHJ (25.32859992980957, 55.5172004699707)

Arrival: RUH (24.957599639892575, 46.69879913330078)

Route Type: International

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