Climate and monthly weather forecastSalalah, Oman

The climate of Salalah

The climate within the city of Salalah, Oman is predominantly classified under the Köppen Climate Classification as a BWh Subtropical desert. This scenic destination is nestled alongside the Arabian Sea and experiences year-round warm to hot temperatures and high relative humidity. The weather patterns of Salalah offer a unique contrast to the standard aridity expected in desert regions due to its proximity to the sea.

Analysis of numerical data from each month reveals mild lows hovering from 17.9°C (64.2°F) in January to about 26.5°C (79.7°F) in June. Temperatures peak between 27.5°C (81.5°F) in January to around 32.4°C (90.3°F) in May. Diving deeper into the climatic trends, it is discernible that the city’s relative humidity wavers mildly from 50% in the drier months like January and December, to as high as about 90% during the monsoon-influenced months such as August.

A remarkable feature of the climatological conditions in Salalah is the variation in rainfall patterns. Dry periods lack rainfall almost entirely, while some months present a marked increase, peaking with rainfall amounts from 25mm (0.98") to 25mm (0.98") in the monsoon season, particularly during July and August. The amount of daylight presence is relatively consistent, averaging about 12 hours, with a negligible difference from 11.1 hours in December to about 13.1 hours at its peak in June.

The best time to visit Salalah

For those considering a visit to Salalah, the optimal time would be from November to March. This period allows travelers to experience mild temperatures with highs that range from 27.5°C (81.5°F) to 28.7°C (83.7°F) and lows from 17.9°C (64.2°F) to 20.4°C (68.7°F). December provides the most comfortable temperature conditions, creating an ideal climate for outdoor activities and exploring the region's rich cultural heritage. In addition, during this time, the relative humidity hovers between 50% and 55%, providing the perfect balance of warmth and moisture.

The worst time to visit Salalah

The period between June and August is statistically the least appealing time to visit Salalah. These months are characterized by high relative humidity reaching 80% to 90% and temperature highs ranging from 31.8°C (89.2°F) to 28.4°C (83.1°F). This timeframe is also associated with the highest monthly rainfall, escalating from 11mm (0.43") in June to approximately 25mm (0.98") in July. However, these rainfall patterns make way for one of Oman's most unique natural phenomena - the greening of the desert due to the Khareef monsoon season.

Spring weather in Salalah

Spring in Salalah, encompassing the months from March to May, sees gradual shifts in climatic conditions. The temperatures steadily rise from highs of 29.9°C (85.8°F) in March to warmer conditions reaching 31.7°C (89.1°F) in April and 32.4°C (90.3°F) in May. The relative humidity increases concurrently from 62% to 75%. Rainfall is minimal during this period, with April seeing no rainfall, thereby complementing the warm temperatures and creating an environment suitable for outdoor activities.

Summer weather in Salalah

The summer months between June and August are characterized by high temperatures ranging from 31.8°C (89.2°F) to 28.4°C (83.1°F) and increased humidity levels peaking at 90% in August. Sea temperatures are quite warm, peaking at 29.1°C (84.4°F) in May and remaining relatively high until September. The months of July and August bring the peak of the monsoon season with rainfall increasing dramatically to 25mm (0.98") and 25mm (0.98") respectively.

Autumn weather in Salalah

Autumn arrives in Salalah in September and extends until November. The temperatures slowly decrease, starting from 30.5°C (86.9°F) in September to 28.7°C (83.7°F) in November, while the lows range from 23.4°C (74.1°F) to 20.4°C (68.7°F). A reduction in humidity is also observed throughout autumn, descending from 81% to 55%. Despite the rainfall levels declining substantially to 10mm (0.39") in November, the weather remains pleasingly warm and comfortable.

Winter weather in Salalah

The winter months of December through February in Salalah mark a period of mild weather. Temperatures hover from 28.7°C (83.7°F) to 27.5°C (81.5°F) for highs, whereas the lows drop to an average between 18.8°C (65.8°F) and 19.2°C (66.6°F). Relatively low humidity levels are maintained from 50% to 58% during this season, providing ideal conditions for leisurely exploration. The winter period also brings nominal rainfall, with a mere 1mm (0.04") during December, ensuring clear skies and cooler nights.

Weather in January

January in Salalah, Oman boasts of an agreeable blend of moderate temperatures and low rainfall. It ushers in greater comfort and lower humidity compared to December. Beaches call out as sea temperatures linger around a pleasant 25°C (77°F). Weather in January »

Weather in February

In February, Salalah experiences a subtle, yet noticeable, warm up compared to January. A pleasing balance of sun, sea, and cool breeze characterizes this month. Relative humidity subtly begins to ascend. The quantity of daylight also slightly increases, heralding the onset of extended sunny days. Weather in February »

Weather in March

Weather patterns in March remain steady, presenting minimal disparities from February. Humidity levels continue their gentle climb. With the transition to March, daylight and sunshine hours rise, signaling the impending arrival of summer heat. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April marks a clear transition towards Salalah's summer swelter. An upward trend in temperature becomes overt. Correspondingly, the increase in relative humidity intensifies. Even the sea begins to warm up, urging for leisurely beachside strolls. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May introduces the intense summer period of Salalah, with remarkably high temperatures. This month witnesses a steady increase in both temperature and humidity from April. An increased UV index implies a palpable intensity in sunlight. Weather in May »

Weather in June

In June, the heat index reaches formidable levels in Salalah. Prolonged daylight hours lead to heightened temperatures and humidity. Sea temperatures also record a significant rise, making water-related activities more inviting. Despite the oppressing heat, June witnesses a significant drop in sunshine hours to 6.7 hours per day, making it the cloudiest month of the year. The beginning of June in Salalah records an average high-temperature of a still tropical 31.8°C (89.2°F), almost echoing the conditions of the previous month. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July experiences a notable dip in temperature from June, signaling a slight relief from the scorching summer. The decrease in daylight and sunshine hours persists. This period marks an all-year high relative humidity of 89%, attributing to a sense of increased warmth. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August maintains the respite from intense heat that started in July. A minimal drop in relative humidity sees locals and tourists alike breathe a sigh of relief. The number of rainfall days remains high attributing to salient cloudiness. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September marks a significant transition towards cooler temperatures. A drop in relative humidity aligns with the descent in ambient temperatures. The sea, however, retains its warm allure. Notably, the month observes minimal rainfall, with only 4mm (0.16") falling across two days. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Salalah holds the trope of mild autumn weather. The declining trend in both temperature and humidity continues. The period sees an appreciable increase in sunshine hours, enhancing the overall pleasantness. Amazingly, despite the decreased humidity, October records no rainfall days, starkly contrasting from the prolonged rainy season of the previous months. Salalah, Oman, observes an average high-temperature of a tropical 30.5°C (86.9°F) in October, barely different from 29°C (84.2°F) in September. Weather in October »

Weather in November

In November, Salalah enjoys a further retreat from heat and humidity. The decrease of both parameters implies a notable decline in the overall warmth. As cooler winds set in, sunshine hours remain fairly consistent. Interestingly, despite the overall reduction in humidity, there is a sudden rise in rainfall to 10mm (0.39") over a day, momentarily reviving memories of the summer drizzle. The start of November in Salalah marks an average high-temperature of a still tropical 30.8°C (87.4°F), hardly distinguishable from the conditions in October. Weather in November »

Weather in December

Salalah graces the end of the year with remarkably stable and moderate weather in December. The pleasantness continues with stable temperatures and lower humidity. Reduced rainfall and sea temperatures provide respite to locals and tourists. Weather in December »