Makkah Weather & Best Time to Visit: A Full Guide

Whether you're planning an Umrah trip, relocating to the Makkah region, or simply want to know what to expect, understanding the city's weather is essential. Makkah sits in a hot, dry mountain valley, and its climate can range from pleasantly mild winter days to some of the most intense summer heat in the Kingdom. This guide from سعودي ليفنج breaks down the seasons month by month so you can plan comfortably and safely.

Makkah's climate at a glance

Makkah has a hot desert climate: very hot summers, mild winters, and low annual rainfall. Total precipitation is modest — roughly 80 to 110 mm per year — with most of it falling between November and January. Over a recent 12-month period, daily highs averaged around 37 °C and lows around 25 °C, with total rainfall near 100–105 mm.

The key thing to remember is that Makkah stays warm for much of the year. Even in the cooler months, daytime temperatures rarely feel cold by European standards.

Summer: June to August (the peak heat)

Summer is the most demanding season. Average daytime highs sit around 40–44 °C, with nights staying warm at about 28–31 °C. On extreme days in recent summers — including 2026 — temperatures have climbed to around 48 °C, a real risk of severe heat stress.

Rainfall is essentially non-existent, often near 0 mm in June and July. If you travel during these months:

• Stay hydrated and carry water everywhere.
• Avoid outdoor activity during midday hours.
• Use an umbrella or hat for shade and wear light, breathable clothing.
• Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, especially among children and older travellers.

Winter: the most comfortable season

Winter brings the mildest and most pleasant weather. January is typically the coolest month, with average highs around 26–29 °C and lows around 18–22 °C. December is similar, with highs near 28–32 °C and lows around 19–20 °C.

January is also the wettest month, usually seeing around 25–42 mm of rain, though showers tend to be light and brief. This combination of cooler air and manageable rain makes winter the ideal window for extended time outdoors.

Spring and autumn: the transition months

Spring warms up quickly. By April, average highs reach about 35–36 °C with lows near 24 °C and light rain around 11 mm. Autumn stays hot into September, with highs of about 38–40 °C, lows near 27 °C, and minimal rain around 5 mm. These shoulder seasons are warmer than winter but still avoid the most extreme summer peaks.

The best time to visit Makkah

For comfortable weather, the best time to visit is generally November to February. During these months daytime temperatures sit around 29–33 °C and nights around 19–22 °C, with lower humidity and reduced heat stress. Within that window, December, January, and February are commonly rated as the best months overall — cooler temperatures combined with manageable rainfall.

Ramadan 1447 AH / 2026 outlook

For Ramadan 1447 AH / 2026, forecasts point to temperatures about 1 °C above the seasonal norm across the Makkah region, along with below-average rainfall. Any rain is likely to be light. Worshippers and visitors should plan for warm conditions and take standard heat precautions, particularly during daylight fasting hours.

Always confirm the latest forecast before you travel, and check official Saudi government channels for any weather advisories during peak pilgrimage seasons.

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