Is the flight from Dubai to Riyadh bumpy?
The Dubai–Riyadh flight is usually a smooth flight. Here is where the plane can move, when it happens most, and how to check today’s forecast for your flight.
Where the plane can move
On a short flight most of the time is spent climbing and descending. That is when you pass through clouds and the air near the ground, which is where most bumps happen; at cruise it is usually calm.
Middle East: the subtropical jet stream
The subtropical jet stream runs over Turkey, Iraq and the Persian Gulf, stronger in winter. It sometimes brings some clear-air turbulence at cruise.
At the airports
In Dubai in summer, heat rising from the ground makes the air a little bumpy in the first and last minutes of the flight.
In Riyadh in summer, heat rising from the ground makes take-off and landing a little bumpy; in spring there can be dust storms.
Today’s warnings in the area
Live map of turbulence and storm warnings issued to pilots (SIGMET and AIRMET), updated every few minutes.
Tips for this flight
- Seats over the wings usually feel the least movement; the back of the plane feels the most.
- Keep your seatbelt fastened whenever you are seated, even with the sign off. The FAA warns that turbulence can throw unbelted passengers from their seats without warning.
- If the captain switches on the seatbelt sign, it is a precaution: turbulence is a normal part of flying.
Frequently asked questions
Is turbulence dangerous on the Dubai–Riyadh flight?
Turbulence is common and usually just uncomfortable. According to the FAA, the real risk is for people not wearing a seatbelt, who can be thrown from their seats, so keep it fastened while seated.
When is the Dubai–Riyadh flight bumpiest?
Based on the areas the route crosses: December to March.
Where should I sit to feel less turbulence?
Over the wings, near the plane’s centre of gravity. The rear of the cabin moves the most.
Other routes
Nervous about flying? Try the three breathing exercises for a calm flight or look at the live turbulence maps.