The right side wins across all phases: a rare glimpse of Paris on departure, likely views of the Alps and Mediterranean/Aegean coastlines during cruise as the flight path curves southeast, and a dramatic Persian Gulf and Abu Dhabi skyline approach on arrival. The left side mostly overlooks the flatter Balkan and Anatolian interior with fewer standout features.
Flown CDG to AUH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Paris to Abu Dhabi is 3,263 miles (5,251 km), a flight of about 6 hours 40 minutes.
The route crosses the Alps near the Austrian-Italian border, continues over the Adriatic Sea and Balkan peninsula, passes near the Aegean Sea and Turkish coastline, then traverses the Anatolian plateau and Syrian desert before entering the Arabian Peninsula's northern deserts en route to the Persian Gulf.
Great circle distance and headings ›.jpg?width=600)
_in_Istanbul.jpg?width=600)
.jpg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from CDG
RIGHTDeparting CDG on the prevailing westerly runways, the aircraft banks south soon after liftoff to align with the southeast routing toward the Gulf, putting central Paris on the right side of the cabin. Passengers get a brief but clear view of the Eiffel Tower, the Seine's curves, and the La Défense skyline before the city fades into the French countryside.
Landing at AUH
RIGHTArrivals into AUH from Europe typically cross the Persian Gulf and turn onto the southeast-facing runways, so the right side faces the coastline during final descent. This offers sweeping views of the turquoise Gulf waters, Abu Dhabi's skyline along the Corniche, and the man-made islands of Yas and Saadiyat before touchdown.
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 Charles De Gaulle (CDG) to Abu Dhabi International (AUH)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Paris to Abu Dhabi. The right side wins across all phases: a rare glimpse of Paris on departure, likely views of the Alps and Mediterranean/Aegean coastlines during cruise as the flight path curves southeast, and a dramatic Persian Gulf and Abu Dhabi skyline approach on arrival. The left side mostly overlooks the flatter Balkan and Anatolian interior with fewer standout features.
What can I see during takeoff from Charles De Gaulle in Paris?
During takeoff from Charles De Gaulle (CDG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing CDG on the prevailing westerly runways, the aircraft banks south soon after liftoff to align with the southeast routing toward the Gulf, putting central Paris on the right side of the cabin. Passengers get a brief but clear view of the Eiffel Tower, the Seine's curves, and the La Défense skyline before the city fades into the French countryside. Notable sights include: Eiffel Tower, La Défense skyscraper district, Seine River, Paris southern suburbs.
What can I see when landing at Abu Dhabi International in Abu Dhabi?
When landing at Abu Dhabi International (AUH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Arrivals into AUH from Europe typically cross the Persian Gulf and turn onto the southeast-facing runways, so the right side faces the coastline during final descent. This offers sweeping views of the turquoise Gulf waters, Abu Dhabi's skyline along the Corniche, and the man-made islands of Yas and Saadiyat before touchdown. Notable sights include: Persian Gulf coastline, Abu Dhabi skyline (Etihad Towers), Yas Island, Saadiyat Island mangroves.
How long is the flight from Paris to Abu Dhabi?
The flight from Charles De Gaulle (CDG) to Abu Dhabi International (AUH) takes about 6 hours 40 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 3,263 miles (5,251 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Paris to Abu Dhabi flight path pass over?
The route crosses the Alps near the Austrian-Italian border, continues over the Adriatic Sea and Balkan peninsula, passes near the Aegean Sea and Turkish coastline, then traverses the Anatolian plateau and Syrian desert before entering the Arabian Peninsula's northern deserts en route to the Persian Gulf.