Year-round weather and climate in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Average temperatures in Riyadh run from an average low of 9°C48°F in January up to an average high of 44°C111°F in July. May is the driest month at 0 rainy days; January the wettest at 4. Here is the annual climate data, so you know what you are packing for.
Good to know
- Population
- 4.2M
- Currency
- SAR
- Language
- Arabic
- Time zone
- Riyadh
Best time to visit
The most pleasant weather falls in October, November, and December, offering a perfect balance of comfortable temperatures and clear skies.
Rain character
Arid & Dry: Rainfall is extremely rare year-round. Leave the umbrella at home and save the luggage weight.
Day-to-night swing
The Daypack Trap: Beware the "noon illusion". In months like May, crisp sunny days drop off a cliff by 14°C25°F at sunset. Always carry an evening layer.
Seasonality Profile
Arid Desert: Relentless heat and virtually no rainfall. Extreme day-to-night temperature drops are the only reprieve.
Evening vibe
Seasonal Terraces: During the more temperate months, the city opens up with lively outdoor terraces. For the rest of the year, expect to dine indoors.
Sightseeing stamina
High Heat Fatigue: During the hotter half of the year, midday sun can cause heat exhaustion. Adopt a local rhythm: sightsee early, and rest indoors at 2 PM.
Average temperatures, sunshine, and rainfall
Average monthly weather in Riyadh, based on recent historical data. Essential insights on temperature swings, expected rainfall, and daily sunshine.
Bars span the average daily low to high. May is typically driest at 0 days (2mm); Jan the wettest at 4 days (28mm).
| Month | Average high | Average low | Sunshine hours | Rainy days | Total rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 20°C / 69°F | 9°C / 49°F | 9h | 4 | 28mm |
| Feb | 24°C / 75°F | 11°C / 52°F | 10h | 1 | 4mm |
| Mar | 29°C / 84°F | 16°C / 60°F | 10h | 2 | 4mm |
| Apr | 33°C / 91°F | 20°C / 68°F | 10h | 3 | 14mm |
| May | 39°C / 101°F | 25°C / 77°F | 11h | 0 | 2mm |
| Jun | 43°C / 109°F | 29°C / 83°F | 12h | 0 | 0mm |
| Jul | 44°C / 110°F | 30°C / 87°F | 12h | 0 | 0mm |
| Aug | 43°C / 109°F | 30°C / 86°F | 12h | 0 | 0mm |
| Sep | 40°C / 104°F | 26°C / 79°F | 11h | 0 | 0mm |
| Oct | 35°C / 94°F | 21°C / 70°F | 11h | 0 | 0mm |
| Nov | 29°C / 84°F | 17°C / 63°F | 10h | 1 | 5mm |
| Dec | 23°C / 73°F | 12°C / 53°F | 10h | 2 | 10mm |
Weather data by Open-Meteo.com (opens in a new tab)
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the sunniest time of year to visit Riyadh?
The most sunshine in Riyadh comes around June, averaging 12 hours a month. If you're heading there then, pack your sunglasses and sunscreen.
What clothes should I pack for Riyadh?
Your packing list depends entirely on when you travel. Temperatures in Riyadh swing from an average low of 9°C48°F in January up to 44°C111°F in July. The Packola app builds a tailored packing list for you based on the live weather forecast for your exact travel dates.
Do I need to pack an umbrella for Riyadh?
Riyadh gets rain on about 13 days out of the year. The wettest month is January. If you're traveling during the rainy season, you'll definitely want to pack an umbrella and a light rain jacket.
Pack smarter.
Averages get you close, but the week you travel is what matters. Get the live forecast, a smart packing list, and discover the best local spots and activities in Riyadh with Packola.
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