While takeoff offers atoll views on the right, the landing descent on the left provides more sustained and dramatic geography—the Hajar Mountains, Persian Gulf coastline, and Abu Dhabi's urban landscape create a more rewarding visual experience for the majority of the flight's final phase.
Flown MLE to AUH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Male to Abu Dhabi is 1,880 miles (3,025 km), a flight of about 4 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Arabian Sea and enters the Persian Gulf. Notable features include the Strait of Hormuz region (far to the north, not directly on route), the Musandam Peninsula (visible to the north during cruise if flying the standard northern corridor), and the gradual transition from open ocean to the shallow waters of the Persian Gulf. The Hajar Mountains run parallel to the UAE coast and become increasingly prominent during descent into Abu Dhabi.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MLE
RIGHTMale International typically departs to the northeast on runway 10/28. Right-side seats offer views of the atoll structure and surrounding Indian Ocean immediately after takeoff, with the North and South Male Atolls visible as you climb out over the reef system.
Landing at AUH
LEFTApproaching Abu Dhabi typically uses runway 09L/27R or 09R/27L depending on wind. Left-side seats on descent provide views of the Persian Gulf coastline, the Hajar Mountains to the southeast, and the UAE mainland approaching the airport. The descent path offers extended views of the coastal geography.
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 Male International (MLE) to Abu Dhabi International (AUH)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Male to Abu Dhabi. While takeoff offers atoll views on the right, the landing descent on the left provides more sustained and dramatic geography—the Hajar Mountains, Persian Gulf coastline, and Abu Dhabi's urban landscape create a more rewarding visual experience for the majority of the flight's final phase.
What can I see during takeoff from Male International in Male?
During takeoff from Male International (MLE), sit on the Right side for the best views. Male International typically departs to the northeast on runway 10/28. Right-side seats offer views of the atoll structure and surrounding Indian Ocean immediately after takeoff, with the North and South Male Atolls visible as you climb out over the reef system. Notable sights include: North Male Atoll (immediate left/below), South Male Atoll (left/below), Indian Ocean reef patterns (right/below), Male city center on Hulhule Island (left/below).
What can I see when landing at Abu Dhabi International in Abu Dhabi?
When landing at Abu Dhabi International (AUH), sit on the Left side for the best views. Approaching Abu Dhabi typically uses runway 09L/27R or 09R/27L depending on wind. Left-side seats on descent provide views of the Persian Gulf coastline, the Hajar Mountains to the southeast, and the UAE mainland approaching the airport. The descent path offers extended views of the coastal geography. Notable sights include: Hajar Mountains (southeast, distant), Persian Gulf (north and west), Abu Dhabi city and harbor (left/below during final approach), Jebel Dhanna peninsula (west).
How long is the flight from Male to Abu Dhabi?
The flight from Male International (MLE) to Abu Dhabi International (AUH) takes about 4 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,880 miles (3,025 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Male to Abu Dhabi flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Arabian Sea and enters the Persian Gulf. Notable features include the Strait of Hormuz region (far to the north, not directly on route), the Musandam Peninsula (visible to the north during cruise if flying the standard northern corridor), and the gradual transition from open ocean to the shallow waters of the Persian Gulf. The Hajar Mountains run parallel to the UAE coast and become increasingly prominent during descent into Abu Dhabi.