The right side wins on all three phases: a rare glimpse of Washington DC landmarks at takeoff, more populated and mountainous terrain across southern Europe and the Middle East during cruise, and the dramatic Dubai coastline and skyline on arrival.
Flown IAD to DXB? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Washington to Dubai is 7,056 miles (11,356 km), a flight of about 12 hours 50 minutes.
The route's midpoint passes near the Black Sea and eastern Turkey, with the Carpathian Mountains and the Bosphorus strait visible along the way before the aircraft continues over the Anatolian plateau toward the Persian Gulf.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from IAD
RIGHTDeparting IAD northbound before turning east, the right side offers a brief but recognizable view south toward the Potomac River, National Mall, and downtown Washington DC skyline before the aircraft climbs out over Maryland farmland toward the Atlantic.
Landing at DXB
RIGHTOn approach into DXB from over the Persian Gulf, the right side typically faces the coastline, giving passengers a good look at Dubai's skyline, the Palm Jumeirah, and the turquoise Gulf waters before touchdown.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Washington Dulles International (IAD) to Dubai International (DXB)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Washington to Dubai. The right side wins on all three phases: a rare glimpse of Washington DC landmarks at takeoff, more populated and mountainous terrain across southern Europe and the Middle East during cruise, and the dramatic Dubai coastline and skyline on arrival.
What can I see during takeoff from Washington Dulles International in Washington?
During takeoff from Washington Dulles International (IAD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing IAD northbound before turning east, the right side offers a brief but recognizable view south toward the Potomac River, National Mall, and downtown Washington DC skyline before the aircraft climbs out over Maryland farmland toward the Atlantic. Notable sights include: Potomac River, Washington DC monuments/Capitol dome, Chesapeake Bay in the distance.
What can I see when landing at Dubai International in Dubai?
When landing at Dubai International (DXB), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into DXB from over the Persian Gulf, the right side typically faces the coastline, giving passengers a good look at Dubai's skyline, the Palm Jumeirah, and the turquoise Gulf waters before touchdown. Notable sights include: Persian Gulf coastline, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Khalifa and downtown Dubai skyline, Dubai Marina.
How long is the flight from Washington to Dubai?
The flight from Washington Dulles International (IAD) to Dubai International (DXB) takes about 12 hours 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 7,056 miles (11,356 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Washington to Dubai flight path pass over?
The route's midpoint passes near the Black Sea and eastern Turkey, with the Carpathian Mountains and the Bosphorus strait visible along the way before the aircraft continues over the Anatolian plateau toward the Persian Gulf.