While landing favors the left, the takeoff experience from Abu Dhabi is more visually rewarding—the Persian Gulf and Hajar Mountains provide dramatic scenery during the extended climb phase. The right side captures more of the journey's opening act with genuine geographic interest.
Flown AUH to XSP? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Abu Dhabi to Singapore is 3,648 miles (5,870 km), a flight of about 6 hours.
The flight path crosses the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. Notable features include the Musandam Peninsula (visible on departure heading southeast), the Oman coastline (south of the direct route), and the Andaman Sea approaching Southeast Asia. The Strait of Malacca becomes visible roughly 1.5 hours before landing. Most of the mid-flight segment crosses open water with minimal landmarks; the Andaman Islands may be visible to the south if flying slightly south of the great-circle route, but are not guaranteed sightings.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from AUH
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Persian Gulf coastline and the Hajar Mountains to the southeast as the aircraft climbs. Left side faces inland desert with minimal visual interest during the initial climb-out from Abu Dhabi.
Landing at XSP
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of Singapore's urban landscape, the Strait of Malacca, and the Malaysian peninsula during descent. The approach path into Seletar typically brings aircraft over the northern waters and urban sprawl, making the left side optimal for city and water views.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Abu Dhabi International (AUH) to Seletar (XSP)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Abu Dhabi to Singapore. While landing favors the left, the takeoff experience from Abu Dhabi is more visually rewarding—the Persian Gulf and Hajar Mountains provide dramatic scenery during the extended climb phase. The right side captures more of the journey's opening act with genuine geographic interest.
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. Right-side seats offer views of the Persian Gulf coastline and the Hajar Mountains to the southeast as the aircraft climbs. Left side faces inland desert with minimal visual interest during the initial climb-out from Abu Dhabi. Notable sights include: Persian Gulf (northwest), Hajar Mountains (southeast), Abu Dhabi city grid (directly below during climb), Jebel Hafeet plateau (distant south).
What can I see when landing at Seletar in Singapore?
When landing at Seletar (XSP), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of Singapore's urban landscape, the Strait of Malacca, and the Malaysian peninsula during descent. The approach path into Seletar typically brings aircraft over the northern waters and urban sprawl, making the left side optimal for city and water views. Notable sights include: Strait of Malacca (west and northwest), Johor Bahru cityscape (north across the strait), Singapore's northern urban districts and reservoirs (below and right), Bukit Timah area (inland, south).
How long is the flight from Abu Dhabi to Singapore?
The flight from Abu Dhabi International (AUH) to Seletar (XSP) takes about 6 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 3,648 miles (5,870 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Abu Dhabi to Singapore flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. Notable features include the Musandam Peninsula (visible on departure heading southeast), the Oman coastline (south of the direct route), and the Andaman Sea approaching Southeast Asia. The Strait of Malacca becomes visible roughly 1.5 hours before landing. Most of the mid-flight segment crosses open water with minimal landmarks; the Andaman Islands may be visible to the south if flying slightly south of the great-circle route, but are not guaranteed sightings.