While takeoff favors the right side with Abu Dhabi's coastal skyline, the left side offers a richer overall experience: a distant but genuine glimpse of the Himalayan foothills during cruise over South Asia, followed by a scenic mountainous approach into Taipei.
Flown AUH to TPE? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Abu Dhabi to Taipei is 4,132 miles (6,649 km), a flight of about 8 hours 50 minutes.
The route crosses southern Iran's arid ranges, the Indus valley in Pakistan, the Gangetic plain near Bangladesh, and passes within distant view of the eastern Himalayan foothills before crossing Myanmar, southern China, and the Taiwan Strait.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase

Takeoff from AUH
RIGHTDeparting AUH toward the east, the initial turn typically swings south of the airport before heading out over the Gulf, giving right-side passengers a good look at Abu Dhabi's skyline, the Corniche, and the man-made islands dotting the turquoise Persian Gulf waters.

Landing at TPE
LEFTOn approach into TPE from the west across the Taiwan Strait, the aircraft typically tracks north of the island's central spine before turning into Taoyuan, putting the rugged peaks of Taiwan's Xueshan range and the green hills ringing the Taipei basin on the left side.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Abu Dhabi International (AUH) to Chiang Kai Shek International (TPE)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Abu Dhabi to Taipei. While takeoff favors the right side with Abu Dhabi's coastal skyline, the left side offers a richer overall experience: a distant but genuine glimpse of the Himalayan foothills during cruise over South Asia, followed by a scenic mountainous approach into Taipei.
What can I see during takeoff from Abu Dhabi International in Abu Dhabi?
During takeoff from Abu Dhabi International (AUH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing AUH toward the east, the initial turn typically swings south of the airport before heading out over the Gulf, giving right-side passengers a good look at Abu Dhabi's skyline, the Corniche, and the man-made islands dotting the turquoise Persian Gulf waters. Notable sights include: Abu Dhabi skyline, Saadiyat and Yas Islands, Persian Gulf coastline, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque area.
What can I see when landing at Chiang Kai Shek International in Taipei?
When landing at Chiang Kai Shek International (TPE), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach into TPE from the west across the Taiwan Strait, the aircraft typically tracks north of the island's central spine before turning into Taoyuan, putting the rugged peaks of Taiwan's Xueshan range and the green hills ringing the Taipei basin on the left side. Notable sights include: Taiwan Strait coastline, Xueshan mountain range, Taipei basin foothills, Tamsui River estuary.
How long is the flight from Abu Dhabi to Taipei?
The flight from Abu Dhabi International (AUH) to Chiang Kai Shek International (TPE) takes about 8 hours 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 4,132 miles (6,649 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Abu Dhabi to Taipei flight path pass over?
The route crosses southern Iran's arid ranges, the Indus valley in Pakistan, the Gangetic plain near Bangladesh, and passes within distant view of the eastern Himalayan foothills before crossing Myanmar, southern China, and the Taiwan Strait.