Saudi Arabia is a country of hidden gems, exciting heritage attractions, and a rich culture, packed full of ancient traditions with a modern twist. In recent years Saudi Arabia has made a name for itself as a must-visit destination, earning a place on every travel enthusiast’s bucket list. If you have considered a visit to this wonderful part of the world, this article will prove helpful in your planning and preparation.
One of the main questions on everyone’s minds is often when is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia, especially since this is a country renowned for its hot weather. The best time to go to Saudi Arabia is November – February when temperatures are mild and you can explore the country in comfort, making this an ideal winter destination.
But let’s dive a little deeper into the topic.
A Brief Overview of Saudi Arabia’s Climate
When it comes to the climate in Saudi Arabia, there are a few things you need to know. Firstly, this is not a country you should visit during the summer season, when it is not uncommon for temperatures to reach 43°C (109°F), so doing a little research into the best time to go is essential. So, let us give you a lowdown on the climate. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is home to two climatic zones including a desert climate, which covers the majority of the country, while the southwest of the country features a semi-arid climate.
This type of climate means that Saudi Arabia experiences extreme heat in the summer months, very little rainfall (less than 150mm in most of the country), and mild winters. It is because of this climate type mixed with global warming, that Saudia Arabia has become vulnerable to wildfires, flash floods in the southwest of the country where heavy rainfall is common, and other notable natural hazards.
Best Time of Year to Visit Saudi Arabia
With that in mind, let’s dive deeper into the best time to travel to Saudi Arabia. Of course, summer is the main season to avoid when planning a trip to the Kingdom, when the extreme heat can make it impossible to visit the country at ease. November – March is the best time to go since you will experience pleasant temperatures for example:
| Month | Min °C | Max °C |
| November | 14°C | 28 °C |
| December | 9°C | 22 °C |
| January | 8°C | 20 °C |
| February | 10 °C | 23 °C |
| March | 14 °C | 28 °C |
This is the best time to go to Saudi Arabia when you will experience the lowest temperatures of the year, which still may feel like summer if you are coming from a relatively cold country. This is what makes Saudi Arabia a fantastic winter destination. Whether you want to escape the harsh North American or European winter or spend the holidays somewhere sunny, Saudi Arabia is an excellent option. Tourist season officially starts in October and ends in March, which means you are guaranteed an excellent atmosphere, lots of local events, and local holidays. It is worth noting that Ramadan falls during February and March when eating during the day in public is forbidden, yet come evening everything comes alive. Eid is one of the biggest celebrations in the Islamic calendar – did you know that Saudi is the birthplace of Islam? So visiting during this time will prove to be an immeasurable experience.
Another great reason to visit Saudi Arabia during this time is the fact that this is the BEST time for adventure. Getting out into the mountains, horse-riding, enjoying watersports, or discovering the desert during this time are some of the most popular things to do in Saudi Arabia, plus this is one of the best times to enjoy a romantic getaway or honeymoon. Along with the many local events, delightful weather, and endless activity options, Saudi Arabia has an abundance of alluring outdoor festivals including the Soundstorm music festival which is held in Riyadh in December as well as Winter at Tantora which celebrates culture, art and music over a six-week spectacle of performances. Ready to book that flight yet?
Seasons in Saudi Arabia
Now that we have covered the best time to go to Saudi Arabia, let’s give you an idea of the country’s seasons, so you can get a well-rounded view of what to expect from this beautiful destination. As you can imagine, Saudi Arabia’s seasons vary a great deal, and if you were wondering when is summer in Saudi Arabia or what is the coldest month, then take a look here.
Spring (March – June)
Many of us picture Spring as vibrant colorful trees, crisp cool weather, and clear blue skies, but Spring in Saudi is a little different. If you travel during Spring, you can expect it to be a short period of cooler weather before the summer heat sets in. One thing to note is that this is the peak season for heavy rainfall in certain areas as well as sandstorms, which can jeopardize your trip, so always consider the seasons carefully.
If you do decide to travel in Spring, you can expect to experience Ramadan, so be aware of the cultural considerations that come with this. Spring is an excellent time to explore the coast and get adventurous. You will find plenty of tourists enjoying watersports activities during this time, as well as after-sunset adventures in the Saudi desert.
Summer (June – September)
If you are keen to soak up the sun, you might consider visiting Saudi Arabia in the summer season, but we must warn you that a Saudi summer is a very hot one. With soaring temperatures reaching above 43°C, you may find that this is too hot for comfort. With little relief from the heat, even in the shade, this is probably the least popular time to visit the country if you want to explore without the risk of heat stroke or dehydration.
However, that’s not to say that summer is completely out of the question. If you do decide to visit during this time, you will certainly find the cooler areas by the coast in places like Jeddah or Dammam, where you can enjoy watersports, snorkeling, and bathing in the Red Sea. Lots of tourists who find themselves with a few weeks off during the summer months opt to visit these coastal areas for some summer fun in the sun. In addition, this tends to be one of the cheapest times to visit, so if it’s a budget coastal adventure you’re seeking, then this could be a good option.
Autumn (September – December)
Autumn is one of the best times to visit Saudi Arabia for many reasons. Firstly, its pleasant temperature makes it a perfect time for hiking, outdoor dining, and sightseeing. This is also a very popular time for honeymooners when activities and experiences are endless. With average daily temperatures of between 23°C and 26°C, you can enjoy a wide range of outdoor adventures, without the extreme heat. With that in mind, this is the most popular time to visit, making it the peak, busy season in Saudi Arabia.
As the summer heat begins to fade away and cooler temperatures come into play, Spring is a sought-after time to visit Saudi Arabia. Each month brings a different experience, Saudi weather in October can be slightly warmer than Saudi Arabian weather in December for example. During this season, you will find many exciting local festivals and events during this time, and experiencing the country when it is at its liveliest is one of the best things you can do to ensure a memorable trip.
Winter (December – March)
Alongside Spring, Winter is just as popular for visiting Saudi Arabia. However, unlike Spring, the temperatures drop considerably during the night, while maintaining an average daily temperature of around 20°C. Unlike other parts of the world, Saudi Arabia does not experience a typical winter, with plummeting temperatures, snow, and short, dark days this is the most popular time to visit. In fact, the coldest month in Riyadh is January with an average daily temperature of just 15°C.
This is an excellent time to visit if you want to enjoy the coolest temperatures, but take your pick of the many festivals and events that are still happening around the country. It is worth noting that the coldest months in Saudi Arabia are December and January, but you will not need to pack your woolen sweaters or winter boots for this destination. With that being said, it’s worth packing a light raincoat and a few layers just in case, as Saudi Arabia is known to experience a different winter every year.
Weather Conditions in Saudi Arabia
Like many countries, the weather conditions vary from place to place in Saudi Arabia and if you are planning a trip to the country, you need to know about these regions as well as the general seasons and climate.
Western Region
If you are visiting this region, which includes Jeddah, Mecca, and Medina, it’s worth noting that the summers here are extreme (45°C and often upwards), with high humidity. Winters in the western region are generally mild (18-30°C.) and you may experience occasional rainfall.
Central Region
Rainfall is rare in this region but can happen mainly during the winter season. The summers in Riyadh are very hot, humid, and dry with temperatures rising to 45°C. Winter temperatures can range between 5 – 22°C which is a dramatic change from the hot summer season.
Eastern Region
The areas of Dammam and Al Khobar experience very dry, hot, and humid summers, and if you are not a fan of the heat then you should avoid this area. Temperatures can often reach 48°C. Winters on the other hand are much more pleasant in the eastern region and you can enjoy milder temperatures (14 – 25°C) and perhaps some rainy spells from time to time.
Southern Region
This is a region that experiences cooler temperatures all year round, but this is cool for Saudi Arabia (20 – 30°C) and rainfall. Winter in this region is relatively cool with temperatures often falling below 10°C.
Northern Region
Last but not least the northern region of Saudi Arabia, the Tabuk area experiences snow and frost in the winter and very hot summers. If you are visiting here during the winter, make sure to pack warm clothing.
Travel Tips & Recommendations
Now that you have a good overview of what to expect by season in Saudi Arabia and the best time to visit, it is time for us to give you a few weather-related travel tips and recommendations to help you with your plans.
- Some winter evenings can be quite cool, so it is recommended to bring layers, a light coat, and warm socks for those unexpected chilly evenings. It is better to be prepared.
- Summer may be the hottest season, but it is a great time to explore famous diving sites in the Red Sea and a visit to the mountainous city of Taif is an ideal escape from the heat.
- It is worth noting that Saudi Arabia is a relatively expensive country to visit, so if you want to enjoy a budget-friendly vacation, summer is a good option, while spring/winter are the most expensive times to visit.
- Saudi Arabia is not unaccustomed to snow, hail, and rain, so depending on your travel plans you may need to pack accordingly, especially if you have the Aseer Mountains on your itinerary.
- It goes without saying, but if you are visiting Saudi during the summer months it is essential to stay extra hydrated and, in the shade, as much as possible to avoid heat stroke.
- If you are traveling in Spring, you should be prepared for sandstorms, by bringing a mask or scarf to cover your mouth. It is best to stay indoors when this occurs.
- Always monitor local weather conditions during your trip, as this can change instantaneously. It is best to be prepared for any warnings of flash flooding, extreme heat, or snowfall.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia is one of the most alluring destinations you can think of, with a rich culture and heritage, a wide range of exciting festivals and events, and plenty of fantastic activities for all ages and interests. This is a destination well suited to couples, families, and solo travelers, and depending on which time of year you visit, you will have a very different experience – that is the beauty of this country.
As we have mentioned, the best time to visit the Kingdom is between November – March, otherwise known as Spring/Summer. This is the best time to avoid the extreme heat which can take over the summer season, and is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy the country in comfort. You will enjoy endless experiences like dune bashing, horse-riding, watersports, and hiking in the mountains during this time while having the chance to experience famous music festivals and Islamic celebrations like Eid. With that in mind, there has never been a better time to plan a trip to Saudi Arabia – the land that captivates everyone who visits.
FAQs
Yes, most visitors will need to apply for an E Visa to visit Saudi Arabia, which is very straightforward. This can be done online and allows the visitor a 90-day visa, however, some nationalities are eligible for a visa on arrival so always check this in advance.
With Saudi Arabia being an Islamic country, you might wonder if there is a strict dress code here. While Saudi Arabia has relaxed its dress code, it is heavily encouraged to dress modestly, especially when visiting any sacred sites or cultural events. Women should pack a scarf and long clothing to cover knees and shoulders, while men should avoid wearing shorts in public, but rather long pants instead. It is also worth noting, that women are not required to wear an abaya.
The best time to visit is in Spring/Summer, which falls between November – March in Saudi Arabia. This is a period of cooler weather, a variety of events, and a bustling atmosphere, as it is the peak tourist season.
Wintertime is the best time to visit Jeddah since this region experiences extremely hot summers. Winter in Jeddah is pleasant and you can enjoy temperatures that stay below 30°C, which is beautiful summer weather for many of us.
Yes, Saudi Arabia has become increasingly tourist friendly, since it opened up to international tourists in 2019. The country has a lot to offer tourists, from historical sites to festivals and fun activities, and now with the online E visa, it has never been easier to plan a trip to the Kingdom.
In major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, you will find more expensive dining options, accommodation, etc. Budget options are available if you take time to seek them out, and a budget traveler should expect to pay between $50 – $100 per day in Saudi Arabia. Prices in Saudi can be comparable to other countries in the region such as UAE.
Umrah is the famous pilgrimage to Mecca, and while it can be performed almost all year long, right after the Hajj season or during November – February as well as during Ramadan are perfect options. For smaller crowds and a much quieter experience, the best time to do Umrah 2024 is July – September, when costs are less than peak season.