Climate and monthly weather forecastMuscat, Oman

The climate of Muscat

With a BWh classification, according to the Köppen climate classification system, Muscat, the capital city of Oman, resides within a subtropical desert climate. Positioned along the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, this climate shape is characterized by extremely minimal rainfall, high levels of sunshine, and intensely hot summer seasons.

Throughout the calendar year, Muscat experiences a vast range of climatic variations, particularly in regard to temperatures that display a pattern of increasing throughout the spring, peaking in summer, and then gradually declining as winter approaches. Monthly average high temperatures fluctuate drastically, ranging from a pleasant 25.5°C (77.9°F) in January, soaring to an intense heat of 40.4°C (104.7°F) in June and then steadily cooling down to 27.1°C (80.8°F) by the closing of the year. Similarly, low temperatures follow the same pattern, starting from a mild 17.3°C (63.1°F) in January, soaring to a hot 30.6°C (87.1°F) in June and then cooling down to 18.9°C (66°F) in December.

In terms of precipitation, Muscat boasts a characteristically desert climate, receiving minor amounts of rainfall mainly in the earlier and latter parts of the year. With an annual total reaching a mere 99mm (3.9"), February records the highest monthly precipitation of 25mm (0.98"), while other months, particularly from May to November, barely make a contribution. It is interesting to note that the months from June to October register no rainy days at all. The city basks in an abundance of sunshine hours, which peak during May with an impressive 11.2 hours daily. This is closely followed by the daylight hours, which are also the highest during June, with an average of 13.6 hours a day.

The best time to visit Muscat

Considering the intense summer heat in Muscat, the most suitable time to visit would be during the winter months from December to February. During this period, the city experiences mild temperatures with a refreshing average high and low of 27.1°C (80.8°F) and 18.9°C (66°F) respectively. Additionally, the likelihood of rainfall is relatively higher than in other months, fostering more fresh and inviting conditions. Furthermore, the sea temperatures averaging at 25.7°C (78.3°F) in December are sufficiently warm for swimming.

The worst time to visit Muscat

On the opposite, the summer months from June to August are by far the worst period to visit Muscat. Temperatures during this time can rise dramatically, with monthly averages reaching 40.4°C (104.7°F) in June and barely dropping below that mark throughout the summer. Coupled with high humidity percentages, around 60% in July, the heat can become quite unbearable. Despite the sea temperature reaching the yearly high of 31.6°C (88.9°F), the outdoor heat might deter most visitors from taking full advantage of the beach activities.

Spring weather in Muscat

Marked by rising temperatures and declining rainfall, the Spring season from March to May in Muscat starts off reasonably mild with average high temperatures of 29.8°C (85.6°F) in March, but closes with an extreme heat of 39.5°C (103.1°F) in May. Correspondingly, low temperatures display similar pattern, starting at 20.7°C (69.3°F) in March and culminating at 29.1°C (84.4°F) in May. Meanwhile, the period's rainfall rapidly declines from 16mm (0.63") in March to a sparse 1mm (0.04") in May. April and May are well-brightened by the highest UV index of 12, suggest necessary measures for skin protection.

Summer weather in Muscat

Summer arrives in Muscat with intensely hot conditions from June to August. During this season, high temperatures reach their peak at a scorching 40.4°C (104.7°F) in June, and continue to linger around 38.6°C (101.5°F) in July and 36.2°C (97.2°F) in August. Night temperatures also hover at around 30°C (86°F) throughout the season. Summer is a dry spell for the city, with barely any rainfall and maximum daylight hours experienced in June at 13.6 hours daily.

Autumn weather in Muscat

Autumn in Muscat, starting in September and ending in November, is characterized by a gradual fall in temperatures. High temperatures start at 36.3°C (97.3°F) in September and drop to 30.5°C (86.9°F) in November. In step with this trend, the lows fluctuate between 27.5°C (81.5°F) and 20.9°C (69.6°F) over the same period. This season is predominantly dry, with no rainfall at all in September and October and a modest 7mm (0.28") in November.

Winter weather in Muscat

Winter in Muscat, spanning from December to February, offers relief from the city’s year-round intense heat, with mild daily temperatures ranging from 27.1°C (80.8°F) to 25.5°C (77.9°F). Night temperatures drop to between 18.9°C (66°F) and 17.3°C (63.1°F), providing somewhat cooler conditions. Rainfall begins to increase during this period, particularly in the month of February, which receives the highest annual precipitation of 25mm (0.98"). Despite the modest increase in rainfall, Muscat's winter season remains largely dry compared to typical winter seasons in non-desert climates.

Weather in January

January weather transitions from the mild chill of winter to slightly warmer temperatures in Muscat, Oman. The city receives a negligible amount of precipitation with a rainfall of a mere 13mm (0.51"). The month's low temperatures render it a preferred time for many to explore the region’s desert landscapes. Weather in January »

Weather in February

Transcending into February, Muscat experiences a minor increase in the mercury levels as compared to January. The city experiences a marked increase in rainfall from 13mm (0.51") in January to 25mm (0.98"), making it one of the wetter months of the year. Weather in February »

Weather in March

The weather in Muscat undergoes considerable change in March. The mercury starts to rise, culminating in a high of 29.8°C (85.6°F), indicating the arrival of summer. As the temperatures increase, rainfall decreases considerably, making March a significantly drier month than its predecessor. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April is when the increasing heat in Muscat starts to dominate the climate. The city experiences a considerable temperature ascent, peaking at a heated 34.7°C (94.5°F). This is complemented by minimal rainfall and reduced levels of relative humidity, pointing to an arid atmospheric condition. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May introduces the extreme summer heat to Muscat, Oman. The city witnesses a spike in temperatures, with the mercury touching an intense 39.5°C (103.1°F). This high temperature coupled with remarkably low precipitation makes May one of the hottest and driest months of the year. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June is the pinnacle of the summer season in Muscat, with temperatures shooting up further. Remarkably, the city records the highest temperature of the year, burning at 40.4°C (104.7°F). With virtually no rainfall, the environment is arid and the atmospheric humidity sees a marginal elevation. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July signifies a gradual easing off of the extreme summer heat in Muscat. Even though the temperatures remain high, they register a marginal drop from the June peak to a still scorching 38.6°C (101.5°F). The scarce incidence of rainfall persists, maintaining the dry nature of the atmospheric conditions. Weather in July »

Weather in August

In August, Muscat encounters a subtle drop in temperatures stemming from the declining summer. Temperatures, while still high, display a modest decrease, from 38.6°C (101.5°F) in July to a slightly cooler 36.2°C (97.2°F). The humidity in the atmosphere peaks, making the month perceptibly muggy. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September sees the onset of autumn, bringing about a respite from the prolonged summer. The slight cooling trend continues with temperatures further dipping to an agreeable 36.3°C (97.3°F), making Muscat's weather more manageable. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Muscat is marked by the progressive departure of the harsh summer heat. The weather turns benign with temperatures further decreasing to a comfortable 35°C (95°F). This reprieve from the summer's severe heat coupled with the absence of rainfall, make October an inviting month for outdoor activities. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November brings a noticeably cooler climate to Muscat, with the retreat of the harsh summer and the advent of winter. The maximum temperatures continue to plummet, reaching an appreciably milder 30.5°C (86.9°F). This month is characterized by decreasing humidity levels and markedly shorter daylight hours, making it more hospitable for outdoor pursuits. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December in Muscat marks the heart of winter with the lowest temperatures of the year. The city experiences a further drop in temperatures to a significantly cooler 27.1°C (80.8°F), making it the chilliest month. Alongside the cool conditions, December also witnesses a marginal increase in rainfall, leading to the wettest season of the year. Weather in December »