Planning
The best time to visit Saudi Arabia
October to March, with the sweet spot from November to February. Summer is for the Red Sea and not much else.
Updated · by Daniel
Season by season
| Months | Inland (Riyadh, AlUla) | Coast (Jeddah, Red Sea) | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov – Feb | Warm days, cool to cold desert nights | Warm and pleasant | Best. Peak prices and events |
| Oct, Mar – Apr | Hot afternoons, fine mornings | Warm to hot | Very good, fewer crowds |
| May – Sep | Extreme heat, often above 40°C | Hot and humid | Red Sea resorts and diving only |
Desert nights in AlUla in December and January can be genuinely cold. Pack a warm layer for stargazing and evening dinners.
Ramadan and Eid
Ramadan moves about eleven days earlier each year. During it, restaurants are closed in daylight and reopen at sunset, when the atmosphere is lively. Eating and drinking in public during the day is disrespectful. Hotels still serve guests.
Eid holidays after Ramadan and Hajj are peak domestic travel periods: flights and hotels fill up and prices rise.
Booking for winter?
Car hire
AlUla and the Riyadh escarpment are driving destinations. Book an SUV early in season.
Travel insurance
The visa's built-in cover is medical only. Cover cancellations, delays and activities.
Questions travellers ask
What is the hottest month in Saudi Arabia?
July and August, when inland temperatures regularly pass 45°C.
Is AlUla open in summer?
Yes, but many experiences run reduced hours and daytime sightseeing is uncomfortable. Plan activities for early morning and evening.
