Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Rome to Abu Dhabi. The right side scores higher due to the Abu Dhabi landing sequence, which delivers concentrated scenic drama: the Persian Gulf's turquoise waters, the city's modern waterfront, and the Hajar Mountains provide visual variety and landmark density. Rome's departure, while urban and interesting, is offset by the right side's flat, featureless inland plains during cruise. The landing approach on the right side is significantly more visually rewarding than Rome's takeoff.

During takeoff from Fiumicino (FCO), sit on the Left side for the best views. Rome's departure offers immediate urban scenery and coastal views. The left side captures the Tiber River valley, Rome's urban sprawl, and the transition toward the Apennine Mountains to the east. The right side faces inland toward flat agricultural plains with minimal visual interest during climb-out. Notable sights include: Tiber River and Rome city center, Apennine Mountains (distant eastern horizon), Mediterranean coastline near Civitavecchia (visible during initial climb).

When landing at Abu Dhabi International (AUH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Abu Dhabi's approach from the northwest delivers dramatic desert and coastal scenery. The right side faces the Persian Gulf coastline, the Hajar Mountains (visible inland), and the distinctive urban geometry of Abu Dhabi's waterfront development. The left side shows flat desert plains with minimal variation. Notable sights include: Persian Gulf coastline and shallow turquoise waters, Abu Dhabi city skyline and Corniche waterfront, Hajar Mountains (inland to the southeast), salt flats and sabkha formations in the desert.

The flight from Fiumicino (FCO) to Abu Dhabi International (AUH) takes 5h 15m.

Balkan Peninsula (Albania, Greece, southern Macedonia) with Pindus Mountains; Ionian Sea crossing; Greek islands including Crete; eastern Mediterranean; Levantine coast (Syria/Lebanon); Anti-Lebanon Mountains; Syrian Desert; Euphrates River valley; Iraqi plains; Persian Gulf approach with shallow coastal waters and sabkha formations