With the Red Sea to its left and the Persian Gulf to its right, Saudi Arabia boasts sprawling sandy plains, towering peaks, beautiful beaches and a whole host of history and culture. But when is the best time to visit?
When you think Saudi Arabia, you probably think sand and scorching sunbeams, which is no surprise really, as 95% of the country is desert. While the climate reflects this in the summer months, when temperatures can easily reach the 40°C range, the weather varies significantly depending on the region.
The best time to visit Saudi Arabia is generally considered to be between November and March, when temperatures are pleasant, rainfall is low and travellers can enjoy the country’s myriad ancient sites and natural landscapes to the fullest; but each season offers a different (and equally exciting) travel experience. Oh, and divers, you’re in luck: the Red Sea boasts warm waters and excellent visibility all year round, so there really is no bad time to take a trip under the waves.
Spring in Saudi Arabia
Lasting from mid-March to mid-June, spring in Saudi Arabia sees cooler temperatures that will rise steadily throughout the season. This is the time of year when you’re most likely to see rain, especially in central regions and the Asir Mountains, although showers tend to be moderate, not torrential. In the north, temperatures at night can drop below 15°C, but in the central and southern regions, such as Riyadh, they typically remain firmly in the 20-30°C range. By May and June, however, the pleasant springtime climate begins to morph into summertime heat, so it’s best to visit the cities earlier on in the season.
Summer in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s scorching summer falls between mid-June and mid-September, with temperatures averaging a whopping 45°C. The aggressive heat means that travellers are generally advised to be cautious when considering a holiday. However, while it’s a good idea to avoid the cities, there are some more temperate regions in the southwest of the country. Divers, you’re in luck: while it’s a little too hot to stay above land, summer is a good season for sailing, snorkelling and diving in the warm waters of the Red Sea.
Autumn in Saudi Arabia
Autumn in Saudi Arabia brings a welcome respite from the high temperatures of the summer months. Lasting from mid-September to mid-December, the season sees cool breezes and a drop in the heat, although in early autumn the temperature may still be a little too hot for daytime excursions. By the time autumn is in full swing, daytime temperatures remain warm, but evenings are pleasantly mild, meaning you can happily wander along the city streets or enjoy a taste of Saudi Arabian cuisine al fresco.
Winter in Saudi Arabia
Beginning in mid-December and ending in mid-March, winter is considered by many to be the best time of the year to visit Saudi Arabia (and, in our opinion, is the perfect remedy for the January blues). Temperatures are pleasant without being scalding: in Riyadh, they range from 15°C to 26°C in November and 16°C to 27°C in March. The mild daytime temperatures are ideal for heading out on desert hikes, discovering incredible archaeological sites or exploring the buzzing cities, and the cooler evenings are great for huddling around a crackling campfire. If you’re lucky, you might even see snowfall in the north, which transforms the desert plains and towering mountain ranges into a winter wonderland.
