Best Time to Visit Saudi Arabia

The best time to visit Saudi Arabia depends upon the weather conditions. It has four seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. The Spring period lasts for a short time, from the middle of March to the middle of June.

Rainfall and sandstorms are very high during this time. It is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia as various water activities are active in the coastal region.

Summer is the month when Saudi Arabia witnesses intense heat, which lasts from mid-June to mid-September. Tourists flock this time to take part in activities like scuba diving or snorkelling in Jeddah and Dammam.

The Autumn season in Saudi Arabia has pleasant temperatures. It usually starts in mid-September and runs through December. Due to perfect climatic conditions, it is also rewarded as the peak tourist season.

Lastly, the winter season in Saudi Arabia runs from mid-December and lasts until mid-March. Due to various festivals and activities, it is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia from India.

Peak Season

Due to dry and mild weather, peak season is the best time to visit Riyadh and other places in Saudi Arabia. The peak season for tourism generally starts in November and lasts until February.

Due to the high influx of both domestic and international tourists, accommodation prices are at their peak.

Pros of Visiting Saudi Arabia During Peak Season

• It is an ideal time to immerse in unique cultural experiences, as major events like the Janadriyah National Festival are organised during this time.

• This time is best for outdoor activities, desert excursions, visiting historical sites and exploring cities.

Cons of Visiting Saudi Arabia During Peak Season

• Due to the high tourism season, early reservations and bookings are necessary.

• All the popular sites and attraction points during this time are crowded.

Shoulder Season

The shoulder season, between March and April and October and November, offers a balanced experience with moderate weather and fewer crowds, providing a perfect opportunity for a relaxed and enjoyable visit.

Pros of Visiting Saudi Arabia During Shoulder Season

• Less crowded compared to the peak season.

• Lower prices for accommodation and flights.

Cons of Visiting Saudi Arabia During Shoulder Season

• There may be fewer cultural events, festivals, or special activities compared to the peak tourist season.

• Some tourist activities and services might still be operating on a reduced schedule.

Low Season

The low or off-season is the time when Saudi Arabia receives the minimum number of tourists due to weather conditions. The low season falls between June and September due to high heat and sandstorms.

Pros of Visiting Saudi Arabia During Low Season

• Popular tourist attractions and landmarks are not crowded.

• Accommodation, flights and some services often offer significant discounts.

Cons of Visiting Saudi Arabia During Low Season

• The intense heat can make outdoor activities, sightseeing and desert excursions challenging.

• Some tourist services and facilities are closed entirely due to lower demand.

January in Saudi Arabia

January is a colder month in Saudi Arabia. The temperature in Riyadh can drop, and the nights in the desert region can be extremely cold. It is the best month to visit Saudi Arabia if you enjoy colder weather for outdoor activities and exploration.

Average Temperatures

The average temperature in January can be between 10°C and 20°C during the day and 5°C to 15°C at night.

Things to Do/Places to Visit

• Visit Diriyah, the UNESCO World Heritage site, and the National Museum.

• Stroll through the traditional Souk Al Zal and modern malls like Riyadh Park Mall.

• Take a scenic cable car ride to see the beautiful mountain views.

February in Saudi Arabia

February is officially the time to indulge in various outdoor activities in Saudi Arabia. Due to the pleasant weather and a wide range of activities, it is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia from India. Nights during this time can be very chilly, so it is best to wear layers while exploring.

Average Temperatures

The average temperature during this month is 15°C to 25°C during the day and 10°C to 15°C at night.

Things to Do/Places to Visit

• Visit King Abdullah Park and Wadi Hanifa in Riyadh for picnicking.

• Spend time in historic Al-Balad, which is famous for its architecture and souks.

• Engage in water activities in the Red Sea, such as diving and snorkelling.

March in Saudi Arabia

March is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia if you enjoy Formula One matches. It is also the start of Ramadan month. Various festivals and events take place in March, offering a glimpse into Saudi culture and traditions.

Average Temperatures

The temperature during this time is 20°C to 30°C in the daytime and 10°C to 20°C at night.

Things to Do/Places to Visit

• Discover the ancient Nabatean archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Visit Shada Palace and enjoy the local markets.

• Enjoy floral displays, garden exhibits and family-friendly activities in Riyadh Spring Festival.

April in Saudi Arabia

April in Saudi Arabia can be very humid and hot due to rainfall. However, precipitation during this month varies across the country, from almost no rainfall in Yanbu to moderate rainfall in Abha.

If heat is not a problem, then it is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia, offering warm weather, blooming landscapes and a variety of cultural and natural attractions.

Average Temperatures

The average temperature during this month can be 25°C to 35°C in the daytime and 15°C to 25°C at night.

Things to Do/Places to Visit

• In Riyadh, explore the bustling markets and dine at a variety of local and international restaurants.

• Take a trip to Asir National Park to witness the lush landscapes.

• Enjoy the Rose Festival in Taif, which features various events and activities.

May in Saudi Arabia

May is the onset of summer in Saudi Arabia. The temperature begins to rise in different parts of the country.

Average Temperatures

The average temperature during this month can be 30°C to 40°C during the day and 20°C to 30°C at night.

Things to Do/Places to Visit

• Take a stroll to King Abdullah Park and Wadi Hanifa in Riyadh, either in the morning or late evening, to avoid the heat.

• Engage in beach activities and water sports in Dammam. It is an ideal location for family outings.

• Visit King Fahd Park in the evening to relax.

June in Saudi Arabia

June marks the peak of summer in Saudi Arabia, with temperatures continuing to rise across the country. Despite the heat, there are best places to visit in Saudi Arabia during summer, especially if you plan your outings for the cooler parts of the day.

Average Temperatures

The average temperature during this month can range from 35°C to 45°C during the daytime and 25°C to 35°C at nighttime.

Things to Do/Places to Visit

• Enjoy the indoor attractions such as the National Museum and shopping malls like Kingdom Centre and Al Nakheel Mall.

• Visit Shada Palace and Al-Muftah Village to learn about local culture and history.

• Witness the architecture of Shubra Palace early in the morning to avoid heat.

July in Saudi Arabia

In July, Saudi Arabia experiences extreme heat across most regions. The days are mostly sunny and warm. If you are planning to visit Saudi Arabia during this time of year, then it is a must to prepare an itinerary for a cooler region.

However, due to the low season, there are significant discounts on accommodation and food.

Average Temperatures

In July, temperatures typically range from 35°C to 45°C during the day and around 25°C to 35°C at night.

Things to Do/Places to Visit

• Visit the Kingdom Centre and Al Nakheel Mall in Riyadh for shopping and entertainment in air-conditioned comfort.

• Explore the National Museum in Riyadh to learn about Saudi Arabia's history and culture.

• Witness the coral reefs and diverse marine life at the Red Sea coastline.

August in Saudi Arabia

August in Saudi Arabia continues the peak of summer, bringing scorching temperatures across the country. While outdoor activities may be limited due to the heat, there are still several indoor attractions and cultural experiences to enjoy.

Average Temperatures

During August, temperatures typically range from 35°C to 45°C during the daytime and around 25°C to 35°C at nighttime.

Things to Do/Places to Visit

• Take a trip to the Fakieh aquarium, which is known for its dolphin shows and auditorium.

• Visit King Abdullah Park, which has walkways, water fountain displays and a sports area.

• Hajj, an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, usually falls in August and attracts millions of Muslims in the country.

September in Saudi Arabia

September is the time when temperatures begin to transition from extreme to milder in various regions of Saudi Arabia. It is the best month to visit Saudi Arabia to explore a variety of attractions across the country.

Average Temperatures

The average temperatures range from 30°C to 40°C during the day and around 20°C to 30°C at night.

Things to Do/Places to Visit

• Enjoy Saudi National Day, which is a major national holiday celebrating the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

• Witness the beauty of Saudi Arabia with Riyadh Season, which features a series of entertainment, cultural and sports events.

• With pleasant sea temperatures, go to the Red Sea Coast for snorkelling and diving.

October in Saudi Arabia

October is the best month to visit Saudi Arabia to explore a wide range of entertainment, cultural and sports activities, including concerts, theatrical performances, exhibitions and food festivals. The month offers a blend of perfect weather and vibrant events.

Average Temperatures

The average temperature during October is 30°C during daytime and 20°C during nighttime.

Things to Do/Places to Visit

• Nature enthusiasts take a trip to the Asir region to observe stunning mountains and lush landscapes.

• Spend time in Jeddah, which offers a blend of modern attractions and cultural heritage.

• Go to witness the beauty of the Kingdom Centre Tower in Riyadh.

November in Saudi Arabia

In November, the weather is pleasant, offering a wide range of exploration opportunities for tourists in Saudi Arabia. The coastal regions of Jeddah and Dammam offer a relaxed experience, with humidity levels lower than those in the summer season.

Average Temperatures

Daytime temperatures typically stay around an average of 25°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop to 15°C.

Things to Do/Places to Visit

• This month, the Riyadh season is at its peak, featuring various exhibitions, concerts and theatrical performances.

• Celebrate AlUla Season, which is at its peak, featuring guided tours of ancient sites.

• Take a desert safari tour to experience the unique landscape and culture of Saudi Arabia's vast deserts.

December in Saudi Arabia

December in Saudi Arabia is characterised by mild and pleasant weather, making it a popular time for both locals and tourists. Tourists can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and cultural events without the extreme heat of the summer months.

Average Temperatures

The average temperature typically stays around 25°C during daytime while nighttime temperatures can drop to between 15°C.

Things to Do/Places to Visit

• Enjoy hiking in the Asir region and water sports along the Red Sea coast.

• Take part in the Tantora Festival, which features art installations, music performances, and various other cultural events.

• Visit the historic Al-Balad district in Jeddah and the King Abdulaziz Historical Center in Riyadh.

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Saudi Arabia is a year-round destination with so many attraction sites and adventure activities to explore in every season.

Based on climatic conditions and finances, tourists can decide the best time to visit Saudi Arabia from India. November to February is the peak season for tourism in Saudi Arabia due to pleasant and mild weather.

What are the hottest months in Saudi Arabia?

• The hottest months in Saudi Arabia are June to September. The average temperature during this time can be 40°C to 45°C.

Which month is the rainy season in Saudi Arabia?

• April is the month when Saudi Arabia witnesses frequent rainfall.

What is the best time to visit Makkah?

• Makkah, or Mecca, is a city in Saudi Arabia that is Islam's holiest city and the birthplace of the prophet Muhammad. The best time to visit Makkah is between August and September.