Auckland to Dubai flight path: AKL to DXB

Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Auckland to Dubai. While the Auckland departure offers a pleasant harbor view, it's brief before hours of open ocean; the Dubai arrival delivers a dramatic, sustained sequence over the Gulf coastline and the city's iconic man-made islands and skyline, giving the right side the stronger overall visual payoff.

During takeoff from Auckland International (AKL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing AKL to the southwest on runway 23L, the initial climb and turn put Manukau Harbour and the bush-covered Waitakere Ranges on the left side of the aircraft, with glimpses of the Tasman Sea coastline as the plane banks toward Australia. Notable sights include: Manukau Harbour, Waitakere Ranges, Tasman Sea coastline, Auckland's western suburbs.

When landing at Dubai International (DXB), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into DXB from the east, the final turn toward the coast-facing runway brings Dubai's skyline and the man-made Palm Jumeirah into view on the right side, with the turquoise waters of the Persian Gulf stretching to the horizon. Notable sights include: Palm Jumeirah, Burj Khalifa skyline, Persian Gulf coastline, Dubai Marina towers.

The flight from Auckland International (AKL) to Dubai International (DXB) takes about 17 hours 35 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 8,823 miles (14,199 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.

The route crosses the southern Australian coastline near the Great Australian Bight before heading out over the vast Indian Ocean, then crosses the Arabian Sea and approaches the UAE past the rugged Hajar Mountains of Oman.