The left side offers the more consistently scenic full-flight experience, combining the Persian Gulf coastline at departure with glimpses of the Iranian coastal mountains and Himalayan foothills during cruise, whereas the right side is dominated by flat desert and open water until the final approach.
Flown AUH to HKG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Abu Dhabi to Hong Kong is 3,732 miles (6,007 km), a flight of about 7 hours 40 minutes.
The route crosses the Persian Gulf, southern Iran's Zagros foothills, Pakistan's Makran coast, and the northern edge of the Indian subcontinent before continuing over Myanmar and southern China toward Hong Kong.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase

Takeoff from AUH
LEFTDeparting AUH toward the northeast before turning east, the left side offers a clear view of the Abu Dhabi coastline and the turquoise shallows of the Persian Gulf, while the right side shows only flat desert interior.

Landing at HKG
RIGHTOn approach into HKG, the right side of the aircraft faces south toward Hong Kong Island and the harbor as the plane makes its turn over the Pearl River Delta, giving passengers a dramatic skyline and mountainous island view just before touchdown.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Abu Dhabi International (AUH) to Hong Kong International (HKG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Abu Dhabi to Hong Kong. The left side offers the more consistently scenic full-flight experience, combining the Persian Gulf coastline at departure with glimpses of the Iranian coastal mountains and Himalayan foothills during cruise, whereas the right side is dominated by flat desert and open water until the final approach.
What can I see during takeoff from Abu Dhabi International in Abu Dhabi?
During takeoff from Abu Dhabi International (AUH), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing AUH toward the northeast before turning east, the left side offers a clear view of the Abu Dhabi coastline and the turquoise shallows of the Persian Gulf, while the right side shows only flat desert interior. Notable sights include: Abu Dhabi coastline, Persian Gulf shallows, Saadiyat and Yas Island shorelines.
What can I see when landing at Hong Kong International in Hong Kong?
When landing at Hong Kong International (HKG), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into HKG, the right side of the aircraft faces south toward Hong Kong Island and the harbor as the plane makes its turn over the Pearl River Delta, giving passengers a dramatic skyline and mountainous island view just before touchdown. Notable sights include: Lantau Island peaks, Hong Kong Island skyline, Victoria Harbour, Kowloon peninsula.
How long is the flight from Abu Dhabi to Hong Kong?
The flight from Abu Dhabi International (AUH) to Hong Kong International (HKG) takes about 7 hours 40 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 3,732 miles (6,007 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Abu Dhabi to Hong Kong flight path pass over?
The route crosses the Persian Gulf, southern Iran's Zagros foothills, Pakistan's Makran coast, and the northern edge of the Indian subcontinent before continuing over Myanmar and southern China toward Hong Kong.