Climate and monthly weather forecast
Saudi Arabia

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The climate of Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia's geographical location has a profound impact on its climate. The country, with its vast expanse covering around 2.15 million square kilometers, is dominated by arid desert landscapes, such as the An Nafud in the north and the Rub' al Khali or the Empty Quarter in the south, the latter being one of the largest continuous sand deserts in the world. The coasts along the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf experience high humidity, while the inland deserts remain dry and arid. The country's climate, classified as "Bwh" in the Köppen system, corresponds to a tropical and subtropical desert climate, with a mean annual temperature equal to or greater than 18°C (64.4°F) and minimal precipitation throughout the year. This hot, dry climate restricts the growth of vegetation, with the exception of the southwestern regions of Asir and Al Bahah which experience a slightly milder climate due to higher altitudes.

The best time to visit Saudi Arabia

The best time to visit Saudi Arabia is from November to March, during the winter months. During this period, temperatures are more moderate, typically ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 30°C (86°F), making outdoor activities and sightseeing more comfortable. The coastal cities of Jeddah and Dammam experience pleasant weather with lower humidity. Moreover, the winter period corresponds with several cultural and entertainment events like the King's Camel Race, an annual camel racing championship, and the Winter at Tantora Festival in Al Ula.

The worst time to visit Saudi Arabia

The summer months, from June to September, mark the worst time to visit Saudi Arabia due to extreme heat. Temperatures can rise dramatically, often exceeding 50°C (122°F) in central and eastern parts of the country. Coastal cities also suffer from high humidity, compounding the discomfort caused by the heat. Outdoor activities become nearly impossible during the day, and even the nights offer little relief with temperatures remaining considerably high.

Spring weather in Saudi Arabia

Spring in Saudi Arabia, occurring from March to May, sees a gradual increase in temperature. Daytime temperatures can reach up to 38°C (100.4°F), while night temperatures hover around 20°C (68°F). Rainfall is sparse but can occur, particularly in the western and southwestern highlands. Despite the heat, spring is famous for the brief yet mesmerizing blooming of desert flowers, offering a unique sight to its visitors.

Summer weather in Saudi Arabia

Summers in Saudi Arabia, from June to September, are extremely hot, with temperatures frequently surpassing 45°C (113°F) during the day. In the desert interiors, temperatures can even reach 50°C (122°F). Nights provide little respite, with temperatures remaining well above 30°C (86°F). Rainfall is nearly non-existent during this period. Visitors are advised to take necessary precautions against heat exhaustion and dehydration.

Autumn weather in Saudi Arabia

Autumn, from September to November, brings a gradual decline in temperatures. Days are warm to hot, with temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 40°C (104°F). Nights become cooler, offering a pleasant respite from the heat. Rainfall remains minimal, although the western highlands can receive some sporadic showers.

Winter weather in Saudi Arabia

Winter, spanning from December to February, brings cooler weather across Saudi Arabia. Temperatures during the day range between 15°C (59°F) and 30°C (86°F). Nights can be relatively cold, especially in the desert areas where temperatures can drop to near freezing. The western highlands receive most of the country's rainfall during this season. Despite its desert climate, Saudi Arabia can experience occasional snowfall in the northern regions, turning the desert landscapes into winter wonderlands.

Weather in January

January signifies the mid-winter period in Saudi Arabia and it is generally the coolest month of the year across the country. In the capital city, Riyadh, located in the interior desert, average temperatures range from a low of 10°C (50°F) to a high of 20°C (68°F). Weather in January »

Weather in February

February in Saudi Arabia marks the tail end of the winter season, and the weather gradually starts to warm up. However, it is still considered one of the cooler months in the country. In Riyadh, the average temperatures rise slightly from January, ranging between 12°C (53.6°F) and 24°C (75.2°F). Weather in February »

Weather in March

March marks the beginning of spring in Saudi Arabia and with it comes a noticeable rise in temperatures. In Riyadh, the nation's capital, average temperatures for the month range from 15°C (59°F) to 29°C (84.2°F), marking a steady increase from the cooler winter months. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April indicates the full arrival of spring in Saudi Arabia, and temperatures continue to rise across the country. In Riyadh, average temperatures increase significantly compared to March, ranging between 20°C (68°F) and 35°C (95°F). Weather in April »

Weather in May

In Saudi Arabia, May marks the onset of the hot summer season, with temperatures beginning to climb steeply. Riyadh, located in the country's desert interior, experiences a significant increase in average temperatures, ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 41°C (105.8°F). Weather in May »

Weather in June

June marks the beginning of the intense summer heat in Saudi Arabia. Temperatures across the country soar to their peak, making it one of the hottest months of the year. In the capital city, Riyadh, average temperatures typically range from 29°C (84.2°F) to 43°C (109.4°F), demonstrating a marked increase from May. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July in Saudi Arabia is characterized by the continuation of extreme heat and arid conditions, making it one of the hottest and driest months of the year. The temperatures in the capital city, Riyadh, hover around 30°C (86°F) to 44°C (111.2°F), often peaking around midday. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August in Saudi Arabia is typically the pinnacle of the summer season, characterized by consistently high temperatures across the country. In Riyadh, the average temperatures can range from 30°C (86°F) to 43°C (109.4°F), often peaking during the afternoon hours. Weather in August »

Weather in September

In Saudi Arabia, September marks the end of the intense summer heat as the country begins transitioning into the milder autumn season. Despite this, temperatures remain high during the initial part of the month. In Riyadh, average temperatures start to drop slightly but still range between 27°C (80.6°F) to 39°C (102.2°F). Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Saudi Arabia is characterized by further decreases in temperatures as the country transitions more deeply into the autumn season. In Riyadh, temperatures drop significantly from September, averaging between 22°C (71.6°F) and 35°C (95°F). Weather in October »

Weather in November

November marks the transition from autumn to winter in Saudi Arabia, leading to a further drop in temperatures across the country. Riyadh experiences a noticeable decrease in average temperatures, which range between 15°C (59°F) and 28°C (82.4°F). Weather in November »

Weather in December

December is the start of the winter season in Saudi Arabia and is characterized by the coolest temperatures of the year. In Riyadh, temperatures typically range between 12°C (53.6°F) and 23°C (73.4°F). The coastal cities of Jeddah and Dammam also experience cooler weather, with temperatures averaging from 18°C (64.4°F) to 28°C (82.4°F). In the northern regions, including Tabuk and Turaif, the winter chill is evident as temperatures drop to between 15°C (59°F) and 20°C (68°F) during the day, while night temperatures can fall to as low as 5°C (41°F). Weather in December »
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Saudi Arabia

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