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TIF → SHJ
Which side of the plane to sit from Ta’if Regional Airport (Taif) to Sharjah International Airport (Sharjah)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular departure over the rugged Sarawat Mountains and superior views of the vast red dunes of the Ad Dahna desert and the fringes of the Empty Quarter.
Sarawat Mountains
Immediate views of the jagged, high-altitude peaks surrounding Taif, often shrouded in morning mist.
Ad Dahna Red Dunes
The striking narrow strip of high-iron red sand dunes that connects the great northern and southern deserts.
Rub' al Khali Fringes
The northern edges of the 'Empty Quarter', showcasing endless waves of orange sand dunes as far as the eye can see.
Dubai Skyline
On clear days, the iconic Burj Khalifa and the Dubai skyline are visible in the distance during the descent into Sharjah.
SHJ Final Approach
Aerial views of the UAE's industrial landscape and the distinctive architecture of the Sharjah airport terminal.
The right side is ideal for photographers interested in desert geomorphology. Early morning flights are best as the low sun angle creates dramatic shadows across the sand dunes and mountain ridges. Keep a sharp eye out for the Burj Khalifa on the horizon during the final 15 minutes of the flight.
Taif City View
Aerial perspective of the high-altitude 'Summer Capital' and its surrounding agricultural terraces during initial climb.
Nejd Plateau
The vast, rocky central plateau of Saudi Arabia, showing unique geological patterns and ancient dry riverbeds (wadis).
Tuwaiq Escarpment
The dramatic 'Edge of the World' limestone cliffs that cut across the central Arabian landscape.
Persian Gulf Coastline
Deep blue waters of the Gulf appearing as the flight begins its descent toward the UAE.
Sharjah Port & City
Dense urban planning of Sharjah city and the Khalid Lagoon during the final approach.
Sit on the left for a better chance to see the northern outskirts of Riyadh if the flight path tracks slightly north. This side is also best for avoiding direct afternoon sun glare when flying east-bound in the later part of the day.
Distance: 1,586 km (985 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 7 min
Departure: TIF (21.483001, 40.543442)
Arrival: SHJ (25.32859992980957, 55.5172004699707)
Route Type: International
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