The takeoff from Barcelona offers more visually distinctive features (the Orinoco delta's intricate channel patterns and sediment plumes are genuinely striking), while the landing approach, though scenic, shows more uniform desert and water. Right-side seats capture the more geographically dramatic departure.
Flown BLA to AUH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Barcelona to Abu Dhabi is 7,704 miles (12,398 km), a flight of about 14 hours 45 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Atlantic Ocean, then the Sahara Desert (visible as vast tan expanses with occasional wadi systems and sand dunes), the Mediterranean coast near North Africa, and finally the Arabian Peninsula's interior deserts before reaching the Persian Gulf. The Sahara's scale and color contrast are the most notable midpoint features, though they are best appreciated from either side depending on the precise routing.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from BLA
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Caribbean coastline and the Orinoco River delta as the aircraft climbs northeast from Barcelona. The delta's distinctive braided channels and sediment patterns are clearly visible during initial climb.
Landing at AUH
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of the Persian Gulf coastline, the Hajar Mountains inland, and the approach into Abu Dhabi. The contrast between the arid desert interior and the shallow turquoise gulf waters is striking during descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from General Jose Antonio Anzoategui International (BLA) to Abu Dhabi International (AUH)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Barcelona to Abu Dhabi. The takeoff from Barcelona offers more visually distinctive features (the Orinoco delta's intricate channel patterns and sediment plumes are genuinely striking), while the landing approach, though scenic, shows more uniform desert and water. Right-side seats capture the more geographically dramatic departure.
What can I see during takeoff from General Jose Antonio Anzoategui International in Barcelona?
During takeoff from General Jose Antonio Anzoategui International (BLA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Caribbean coastline and the Orinoco River delta as the aircraft climbs northeast from Barcelona. The delta's distinctive braided channels and sediment patterns are clearly visible during initial climb. Notable sights include: Orinoco River delta (sediment plumes), Caribbean Sea coastline, Margarita Island to the northeast, Maturín region inland to the south.
What can I see when landing at Abu Dhabi International in Abu Dhabi?
When landing at Abu Dhabi International (AUH), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Persian Gulf coastline, the Hajar Mountains inland, and the approach into Abu Dhabi. The contrast between the arid desert interior and the shallow turquoise gulf waters is striking during descent. Notable sights include: Persian Gulf coastline with shallow turquoise waters, Hajar Mountains to the south and west, Abu Dhabi city and islands, coastal salt flats and sabkha.
How long is the flight from Barcelona to Abu Dhabi?
The flight from General Jose Antonio Anzoategui International (BLA) to Abu Dhabi International (AUH) takes about 14 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 7,704 miles (12,398 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Barcelona to Abu Dhabi flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Atlantic Ocean, then the Sahara Desert (visible as vast tan expanses with occasional wadi systems and sand dunes), the Mediterranean coast near North Africa, and finally the Arabian Peninsula's interior deserts before reaching the Persian Gulf. The Sahara's scale and color contrast are the most notable midpoint features, though they are best appreciated from either side depending on the precise routing.