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SYD → AUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior departure experience with iconic views of Sydney Harbour and the Blue Mountains, followed by a dramatic approach over the Hajar Mountains and Yas Island's landmarks.
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Sydney Harbour
Unmatched views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge if the aircraft departs towards the north and turns west.
Blue Mountains
The hazy blue sandstone ridges and deep valleys of the Great Dividing Range shortly after leaving Sydney.
Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre
The shimmering salt crusts and intricate drainage patterns of Australia's largest salt lake in the outback.
Hajar Mountains
The jagged, dark peaks of the Al Hajar range in Oman and the UAE during the descent phase.
Yas Island
The distinctive red roof of Ferrari World and the Yas Marina Circuit are often visible during the final descent into AUH.
Zayed International Airport
A great view of the massive, undulating roof of the new Terminal A as the plane lands.
The right side is ideal for photographers hoping to capture the iconic Sydney skyline on departure. As the flight approaches Abu Dhabi, keep your window shade open to see the stark contrast between the desert dunes and the modern entertainment hubs of Yas Island. Note that the glare from the sun may be stronger on this side during the midday portion of the flight.
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Botany Bay & Coastline
Aerial views of the white sands of Cronulla and the rugged cliffs of the Royal National Park immediately after takeoff.
Nullarbor Plain
The vast, arid expanse of the Australian interior where the desert meets the Great Australian Bight.
Indian Ocean Sunset
Stunning, prolonged sunset views as the aircraft travels west, chasing the sun across the southern hemisphere.
Musandam Peninsula
The 'Norway of Arabia' with its stark, mountainous fjords and deep blue waters near the Strait of Hormuz.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
On specific southern approaches, clear views of the mosque's white marble domes and the Abu Dhabi skyline.
Select the left side for the best sunset experience as you fly west for over 14 hours. During the final approach into Abu Dhabi, this side provides the best chance to spot the city's architectural landmarks. If the flight departs south from Sydney, you will get a great view of the Illawarra coastline.
Get eSIMs for Australia
Get eSIMs for United Arab EmiratesDistance: 12,061 km (7,494 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 14 hrs 11 min
Departure: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)
Arrival: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Route Type: International
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