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TIF destination photo
AHB destination photo

TIFAHB

Which side of the plane to sit from Ta’if Regional Airport (Taif) to Abha Regional Airport (Abha)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side of the aircraft offers spectacular views of the dramatic Sarawat mountain escarpment, where the high-altitude plateau drops sharply towards the Tihamah coastal plains.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
⛰️

Sarawat Escarpment

Stunning vertical drop-offs and jagged mountain ridges that define the southwestern border of the Arabian Peninsula.

☁️

Tihamah Lowlands

Views of the low-lying coastal plains often blanketed in morning fog or sea mist from the Red Sea.

🏙️

Al-Namas Terraces

Lush, green agricultural terraces carved into the mountainsides near Al-Namas, especially vibrant after seasonal rains.

🏔️

Jabal Soudah

As you descend into Abha, catch a glimpse of the highest peak in Saudi Arabia, often shrouded in juniper forests.

🌊

Red Sea Horizon

On exceptionally clear days, the shimmering waters of the Red Sea are visible in the far distance beyond the plains.

Choose the right side for morning flights for the best lighting on the mountain faces. This side provides the most dramatic sense of height as you fly directly over the 'edge' of the plateau. Keep your camera ready during the final 15 minutes of the flight as the descent into Abha brings you very close to the peak of Jabal Soudah.

Left Side Highlights
6.2
🏜️

Hejaz Plateau

Vast stretches of rugged, high-altitude desert terrain characteristic of the Arabian Shield.

🏘️

Al-Baha Highlands

Aerial views of the high-altitude city of Al-Baha and its surrounding stone-built mountain villages.

🛤️

Wadi Systems

Intricate networks of dry riverbeds and deep gorges that carve through the eastern side of the mountain range.

☀️

Arabian Interior

Expanding views toward the Najd region, showcasing the transition from mountains to the interior desert.

The left side is preferable for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun over the Red Sea. Look for ancient stone structures and agricultural terraces that are more visible in the softer morning light.

Top Activities in Abha
Route Information

Distance: 423 km (263 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 42 min

Departure: TIF (21.483001, 40.543442)

Arrival: AHB (18.2404003143, 42.65660095210001)

Route Type: Domestic

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