Worst time to visit Riyadh
Some months in Riyadh are clearly tougher for travel — extreme heat, cold, drenching rain, or peak storm season. Here's what to skip.
Months to avoid
| Month | Why |
|---|---|
| April | dangerously hot (avg 33°C / 92°F) |
| May | dangerously hot (avg 39°C / 102°F) |
| June | dangerously hot (avg 42°C / 108°F) |
| July | dangerously hot (avg 43°C / 110°F) |
| August | dangerously hot (avg 43°C / 109°F) |
| September | dangerously hot (avg 40°C / 104°F) |
| October | dangerously hot (avg 35°C / 94°F) |
What to expect in the worst months
April. Daytime highs averaging 33°C / 92°F mean outdoor sightseeing between roughly 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. becomes uncomfortable — locals retreat indoors and many smaller shops close in the afternoon.
May. Daytime highs averaging 39°C / 102°F mean outdoor sightseeing between roughly 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. becomes uncomfortable — locals retreat indoors and many smaller shops close in the afternoon.
June. Daytime highs averaging 42°C / 108°F mean outdoor sightseeing between roughly 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. becomes uncomfortable — locals retreat indoors and many smaller shops close in the afternoon.
Better times to go
Better months: January (21°C, 4 rain days) · February (23°C, 5 rain days) · November (27°C, 5 rain days) · December (22°C, 3 rain days)
Better in the same region in April
If you're set on Middle East in April, these cities have more comfortable conditions in the same window:
If you still have to go — what to bring
- Heat: UPF-rated long-sleeve sun shirt, refillable insulated bottle, electrolyte tablets, lightweight wide-brim hat. Plan indoor activities for 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Related Riyadh guides
The positive counterpart: which months are great and why.