While the DXB departure favors the left for coastal Dubai views, the right side offers a stronger overall experience thanks to distant views of the Zagros foothills during cruise and the standout Bosphorus and Istanbul skyline scenery on arrival.
Flown DXB to IST? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Dubai to Istanbul is 1,883 miles (3,030 km), a flight of about 3 hours 55 minutes.
Arabian Desert of Saudi Arabia, the Euphrates River valley in Iraq, and the distant Zagros Mountains along the Iran-Iraq border visible to the east before the route crosses into the Anatolian Plateau of Turkey
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from DXB
LEFTDeparting DXB on the northwest-facing runway, the initial climb curves out over the Gulf coastline, giving passengers on the left a good look at Palm Jumeirah, the Dubai Marina towers, and the turquoise shallows of the Persian Gulf before the aircraft turns inland.
Landing at IST
RIGHTArrivals into Istanbul Airport from the south typically bank over the Sea of Marmara before lining up on the north-south runways, putting the Bosphorus strait, the Marmara coastline, and the historic Istanbul skyline on the right side of the aircraft during final descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Dubai International (DXB) to İstanbul Airport (IST)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Dubai to Istanbul. While the DXB departure favors the left for coastal Dubai views, the right side offers a stronger overall experience thanks to distant views of the Zagros foothills during cruise and the standout Bosphorus and Istanbul skyline scenery on arrival.
What can I see during takeoff from Dubai International in Dubai?
During takeoff from Dubai International (DXB), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing DXB on the northwest-facing runway, the initial climb curves out over the Gulf coastline, giving passengers on the left a good look at Palm Jumeirah, the Dubai Marina towers, and the turquoise shallows of the Persian Gulf before the aircraft turns inland. Notable sights include: Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, Dubai Marina skyline, Persian Gulf coastline.
What can I see when landing at İstanbul Airport in Istanbul?
When landing at İstanbul Airport (IST), sit on the Right side for the best views. Arrivals into Istanbul Airport from the south typically bank over the Sea of Marmara before lining up on the north-south runways, putting the Bosphorus strait, the Marmara coastline, and the historic Istanbul skyline on the right side of the aircraft during final descent. Notable sights include: Sea of Marmara, Bosphorus strait, Istanbul old city skyline, Princes' Islands.
How long is the flight from Dubai to Istanbul?
The flight from Dubai International (DXB) to İstanbul Airport (IST) takes about 3 hours 55 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,883 miles (3,030 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Dubai to Istanbul flight path pass over?
Arabian Desert of Saudi Arabia, the Euphrates River valley in Iraq, and the distant Zagros Mountains along the Iran-Iraq border visible to the east before the route crosses into the Anatolian Plateau of Turkey