That is true if one assumes the earth is round. Of course the importance of Muslims having to pray in the correct direction (toward Mecca) wasprobably instituted by mullahs who thought the world was flat and there was only one option for direction.
The quran actually teaches that the earth is flat and some “scholars” in Saudi still teach this. However since the earth is round you can face any direction and still draw a direct line to Mecca or any other place.
No doubt you’re right, but sometimes I think they do things like that JUST to be difficult... kind of like our liberal pals.