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URY → RUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Gurayat Domestic Airport (Guriat) to King Khaled International Airport (Riyadh)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft typically offers a superior view of the dramatic red sands of the Great Nafud desert and the jagged peaks of the Jabal Shammar mountain range as you approach the Hail region.
Search flights from URY to RUH
Great Nafud Desert
Witness the vast expanse of deep red sand dunes that characterize the northern Arabian Peninsula.
Jabal Shammar Peaks
Granite mountains near Hail that provide a rugged contrast to the surrounding desert plains.
North-South Railway
Look for the thin line of the SAR railway track cutting through the desert landscape.
Al-Qassim Oases
Geometric patterns of circular irrigation fields appear as green dots in the arid terrain.
Riyadh Northern Districts
During the final descent, view the expanding suburban developments and the lights of the capital.
Book a morning flight to see the sun illuminate the eastern faces of the sand dunes, creating high-contrast shadows. The left side is preferred for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun which tracks to the west. Dust storms are frequent in spring, so check the visibility forecast before choosing your seat.
Get eSIMs for Saudi Arabia
Get eSIMs for Saudi Arabia
Harrat al-Harrah
Ancient volcanic fields and basalt plains visible shortly after takeoff from Gurayat.
Linear Sand Dunes
Long, wind-swept longitudinal dunes that stretch for miles across the central plateau.
Shaqra and Ushaiger
Historic mud-brick settlements and heritage villages located in the heart of the Najd region.
Industrial Hubs
View the expanding infrastructure and logistics centers on the western outskirts of Riyadh.
Tuwaiq Escarpment
The dramatic limestone cliff edge that defines the geography of central Saudi Arabia.
The right side is excellent for catching the sunset over the desert during late afternoon flights. Keep an eye out for the unique volcanic geology near the start of the trip. During the winter months, the air is clearer, allowing for better visibility of the distant horizon and the vastness of the Najd plateau.
Book Hotels in RiyadhDistance: 1,169 km (726 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min
Departure: URY (31.412413, 37.278898)
Arrival: RUH (24.957599639892575, 46.69879913330078)
Route Type: Domestic
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