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TIF → RUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Ta’if Regional Airport (Taif) to King Khaled International Airport (Riyadh)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers the most dramatic views, particularly the striking Tuwaiq Escarpment and a more direct view of the Riyadh city skyline and historic Diriyah during the descent.
Sarawat Mountains
Rugged granite peaks and deep valleys surrounding Taif visible shortly after takeoff.
Tuwaiq Escarpment
The massive natural limestone ridge that cuts through the Najd, appearing as a sharp cliff face.
Historic Diriyah
The UNESCO World Heritage site of At-Turaif, the ancestral home of the Saudi Royal family, on Riyadh's outskirts.
Wadi Laban Bridge
The spectacular cable-stayed bridge spanning the deep Wadi Laban during the final approach.
Riyadh Skyline
A panoramic view of the Kingdom Centre and Al Faisaliyah towers as the plane banks toward the airport.
The right side is superior for afternoon flights when the sun illuminates the Tuwaiq cliffs and the Riyadh skyline with a warm golden hue. Watch for the 'Edge of the World' formation if the flight path tracks slightly south. During the descent, the contrast between the ancient mud-brick architecture of Diriyah and the modern glass towers of central Riyadh is best captured from this side.
Taif City View
Aerial perspective of the high-altitude 'Summer Capital' of Saudi Arabia immediately after departure.
Central Najd Plateau
The expansive reddish-gold landscape of the Arabian heartland with occasional nomadic tracks.
KAFD Skyscrapers
The futuristic King Abdullah Financial District is often visible to the north when approaching RUH from the west.
RUH Airport Sprawl
An extensive view of the massive King Khaled International Airport terminals and runways upon landing.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is also preferable for sunset views as the sun will descend over the horizon to your west. Keep an eye out for the distinct geometric patterns of circular irrigation farms scattered across the desert floor.
Distance: 738 km (459 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 14 min
Departure: TIF (21.483001, 40.543442)
Arrival: RUH (24.957599639892575, 46.69879913330078)
Route Type: Domestic
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