Weather & Clothing
Saudi Arabia has a hot desert climate, and Makkah in particular sits in a valley that traps heat. Understanding the weather patterns helps you plan when to visit, what to pack, and how to stay safe.
Monthly Temperatures
| Month | Makkah Avg High | Madinah Avg High | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 30°C | 24°C | Mild, coolest month, pleasant for Umrah |
| February | 31°C | 27°C | Mild and comfortable |
| March | 34°C | 31°C | Warming up, still comfortable |
| April | 37°C | 35°C | Getting hot, manageable |
| May | 41°C | 39°C | Hot, outdoor activities become taxing |
| June | 43°C | 42°C | Very hot, peak summer begins |
| July | 43°C | 42°C | Extreme heat, highest temperatures |
| August | 43°C | 42°C | Extreme heat continues |
| September | 42°C | 40°C | Still very hot |
| October | 38°C | 36°C | Starting to cool, still warm |
| November | 33°C | 30°C | Pleasant, good for Umrah |
| December | 31°C | 25°C | Cool and comfortable |
When Hajj falls in the hot months (May to September): Temperatures can exceed 45°C and reach 50°C in direct sunlight. The heat is the most dangerous aspect of a hot-season Hajj. Pilgrims have died from heat stroke. Take it extremely seriously - see our Health & Medical guide for detailed heat safety advice.
Best Time to Visit for Umrah
If you have flexibility on when to perform Umrah, the most comfortable months are November to February. Temperatures are pleasant (24-33°C) and the crowds are manageable outside of Ramadan and school holidays. Ramadan is a spiritually rewarding time but comes with massive crowds and extended waiting times.
What to Wear Outside Ihram
For men:
- Loose, lightweight, breathable clothing in light colours. Cotton or linen is best.
- Many men wear the Saudi thobe (long white garment) which is perfectly suited to the climate. You can buy them cheaply in Makkah or Madinah.
- Comfortable sandals or lightweight shoes that are easy to slip on and off (you remove shoes frequently when entering the mosque).
For women:
- Loose, modest clothing. An abaya is commonly worn and can be purchased locally. It is no longer legally required for foreign women, but most women wear one for convenience and modesty.
- Lightweight hijab in breathable fabric. Bring several as they get sweaty.
- Comfortable, easy-to-remove shoes.
Sun Protection
- Umbrella: This is your most important sun protection item (men in Ihram: the madhabs differ on shade carried over the head - see Performing Umrah). A compact, UV-reflective umbrella (often sold as “Hajj umbrellas”) provides shade and can reduce felt temperature by several degrees.
- Sunscreen: SPF 50+ (unscented if you are in Ihram) applied to exposed skin, especially face, neck, and hands/feet.
- Sunglasses: The glare from white marble in the Haram courtyards can be intense.
Rain
Rain is rare in Makkah and Madinah but does occur, mostly between November and February. When it rains, it can cause flash flooding - Makkah’s valley geography makes it susceptible. If heavy rain is forecast, stay indoors and avoid underpasses and low-lying areas. The Haram itself has excellent drainage but the surrounding streets can flood quickly.