Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Melbourne to Abu Dhabi. While the left offers good takeoff views, the right side provides superior scenery during the longer descent and approach phase into Abu Dhabi, where the Persian Gulf, mountains, and city grid create more dramatic visual interest than the departure sequence.

During takeoff from Melbourne International (MEL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer views of Port Phillip Bay and the Dandenong Ranges as the aircraft climbs northwest from Melbourne Airport. The bay's distinctive shape and the forested ranges provide clear visual landmarks during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Port Phillip Bay, Dandenong Ranges, Yarra River estuary, Melbourne CBD skyline.

When landing at Abu Dhabi International (AUH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats provide excellent views during the approach to Abu Dhabi. The Persian Gulf coastline, the Hajar Mountains to the southeast, and the distinctive urban grid of Abu Dhabi city are all visible on the right side during descent. Notable sights include: Persian Gulf coastline, Hajar Mountains, Abu Dhabi city grid, coastal salt flats and sabkha.

The flight from Melbourne International (MEL) to Abu Dhabi International (AUH) takes Approximately 13-14 hours.

The flight path crosses the Indian Ocean for roughly 8-9 hours with no significant landmarks visible—only open ocean. As the aircraft approaches the Arabian Peninsula, the Oman coastline becomes visible (Muscat area), followed by the Strait of Hormuz and the entrance to the Persian Gulf. The flight then follows the Gulf coast northwestward toward Abu Dhabi, with occasional views of the Hajar Mountains inland and the shallow, island-dotted waters of the Gulf.