Thinking about a trip to Medina around Christmas? You’ll find the weather mild and pretty comfortable, especially compared to those scorching summer months. Daytime temperatures usually sit near 26°C (78°F), and nights drop down to about 12°C (54°F), so it’s honestly one of the nicest times to get out and explore.
The air feels dry, though just a touch more humid than during the city’s hottest months.
Shorter daylight hours don’t really mean less sun—you still get around 8 to 10 hours each day. December might bring a little rain, but showers are quick and rare, so your outdoor plans probably won’t get washed out.
There’s a nice balance here: warm days, cooler evenings, and mostly clear skies. Christmas week in Medina just feels comfortable, whether you’re sightseeing or looking for a little quiet.
You can pack for a trip that avoids the harshest desert extremes, but still lets you soak up plenty of sunshine.
Overview of Medina’s Climate in December
December brings mild warmth during the day, cooler nights, and barely any rainfall. The desert setting, elevation, and Medina’s spot in western Saudi Arabia all play a part in shaping this weather.
These factors make Medina’s climate stand out compared to other big cities in the country.
Desert Climate Characteristics
Medina sits in a desert climate, so you’ll notice dry air and some pretty big temperature swings from day to night. Daytime highs usually reach 26–27°C (79–81°F), but at night, temps drop to around 12–14°C (54–57°F).
December rain is rare, with only about 7–8 mm falling during the whole month, often just on a single day. Humidity stays low, averaging around 30–38%, so the air feels crisp, not sticky.
Most days bring clear skies and lots of sun, though midday UV can get strong. You’ll probably feel great outside during the day, but a light jacket comes in handy after sunset.
Geographic Location and Elevation
Medina sits in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah Province in western Saudi Arabia, about 150 kilometers from the Red Sea. Being inland cuts down on moisture, so December stays dry.
The city’s elevation is around 600–620 meters (about 2,000 feet) above sea level. That height helps keep daytime heat in check compared to lower-lying deserts.
Nights cool down quickly at this elevation, which explains why you’ll notice such a drop after sunset.
With this geography, December weather in Medina feels more balanced than in many flat desert regions. You get less extreme highs and cooler evenings that make outdoor activities inviting.
Comparison with Other Saudi Cities
When you look at Medina’s December climate next to other Saudi cities, the differences jump out. For example:
| City | Avg High (°C) | Avg Low (°C) | Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medina | 27 | 13 | ~7 |
| Riyadh | 22 | 10 | ~15 |
| Jeddah | 30 | 20 | ~25 |
Riyadh, sitting on the central plateau, feels cooler in the day but gets a bit more rain. Jeddah, right on the Red Sea, stays warmer and more humid, with a bigger chance of showers.
Medina lands in the middle: warm, dry days, cool nights, and hardly any rain. That’s why walking around and exploring the city in December just feels good.
Typical Temperatures During Christmas Week
During the last week of December, Medina offers mild warmth during the day and cooler nights. The weather feels comfortable—no comparison to the extreme summer heat.
Still, the shift between day and night means you’ll want to plan your clothing.
Average Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures
In late December, daytime highs usually reach 25–27 °C (77–81 °F). That’s warm enough for light clothes if you’re out and about.
At night, temps drop to about 12–14 °C (54–57 °F). Evenings can feel crisp, so it’s smart to bring a light jacket or sweater.
You’ll notice the difference between day and night, but it’s not as dramatic as in some desert regions farther inland.
Humidity in December tends to run higher than in summer, averaging around 35–37%. This makes the air feel a bit less dry, so cooler nights aren’t as sharp as you might expect elsewhere.
Temperature Ranges and Extremes
Christmas week falls in Medina’s cooler season, but nighttime lows rarely go below 10 °C (50 °F). Daytime highs almost never top 28 °C (82 °F).
The mean daily temperature for December hovers near 20 °C (68 °F), so it’s genuinely one of the nicest times to visit.
You miss out on those brutal summer highs above 40 °C (104 °F).
Extreme cold snaps almost never happen. Even when it gets chilly, nighttime lows seldom fall under 8 °C (46 °F).
You can pack with confidence, knowing you’re not likely to face any big weather surprises.
Historical Weather Patterns
Historical records show December in Medina stays pretty steady year after year. Highs stick to the mid-20s Celsius, and lows hover in the low teens.
Rain can happen, but it’s limited. December averages just 5–6 mm of rain, so most Christmas weeks are dry and sunny.
When rain does come, it’s usually a light, quick shower—not a drawn-out storm.
Wind speeds average 18–20 km/h, giving you a gentle breeze but not the dust storms you might see in hotter months. Visibility is great, around 10 km, making sightseeing easy.
Rainfall and Humidity Levels in Late December
Late December in Medina brings some mild but noticeable weather changes. Rain stays light and rare, while humidity edges up compared to most of the year.
You might notice the air feels a bit cooler and slightly damp, but not uncomfortably so.
Average Precipitation Amounts
Rainfall in late December is minimal. The month gets about 6 mm (0.2 inches) of rain, and by the final week, daily amounts usually fall below 4 mm (0.16 inches).
Heavy rain almost never happens, but you could see a quick, light shower. Most days are dry, so outdoor plans aren’t usually at risk.
The wettest day in December usually comes earlier in the month. By Christmas, rain is even less likely, but Medina’s desert climate can surprise you with a brief shower now and then.
Rainfall Frequency and Intensity
Rainy days in late December are rare. Data shows only about 1 rainy day for the whole month. By the end of December, some years don’t record any measurable rain at all.
When it does rain, it’s usually a drizzle or a fast shower, not an all-day event. Intense downpours are very rare at this time of year, especially compared to months like November.
So, you can expect mostly dry weather around Christmas. Still, it doesn’t hurt to toss a light rain jacket in your bag, just in case.
Humidity Trends
Humidity climbs in December compared to the dry summer. Around Christmas, relative humidity averages 77% to 79%, which is higher than usual for Medina, but still not like the coast.
The most humid days earlier in December reach about 82%, but those numbers drop a bit by the end of the month. Even at their peak, Medina’s humidity feels okay because temperatures stay cool, averaging 10–25°C (51–77°F).
You’ll notice mornings and evenings feel a bit cooler and slightly damp. Afternoons usually stay dry and pleasant.
This mix of mild temperatures and moderate humidity helps make late December a comfortable time to be outside in Medina.
Sunshine Hours and Daylight During Christmas
In late December, Medina enjoys mild winter weather with clear skies most days. Daylight hours are shorter than summer, but you still get steady warmth and brightness.
Average Daily Sunshine
During Christmas, Medina usually gets 7 to 9 hours of sunshine per day. That’s a pretty high percentage of the available daylight, so clouds don’t stick around for long.
The dry desert air keeps the skies bright and clear. Even in winter, Medina stays sunnier than a lot of other places at the same latitude.
Outdoor activities feel great during the day, with plenty of light. The sun can still be intense, so a bit of sun protection is a good idea.
| Measurement | Value (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Daily sunshine hours | 7–9 hours |
| Cloud interference | Low |
| Seasonal comparison | Slightly fewer than summer |
Length of Daylight
December brings shorter days. Around Christmas, daylight lasts about 10.5 hours from sunrise to sunset.
Sunrise happens near 7:00 AM, and sunset comes close to 5:30 PM. Evenings arrive earlier, and temperatures drop fast after the sun goes down.
The amount of daylight barely changes across the month, just a few minutes here or there. If you want to make the most of the sunshine, plan your outdoor stuff earlier in the day.
Cloud Cover and Sky Conditions
Medina’s December sky is usually clear, with only a few light clouds now and then. You’ll probably see blue skies almost daily.
Humidity averages around 38%, so heavy clouds don’t build up. Rain is rare, so gray skies are unusual.
The clear air also means great visibility, making sightseeing and travel easier. If you like dry, sunny weather, December is a pretty reliable bet in Medina.
Travel Considerations for Visiting Medina at Christmas
Temperatures around late December in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah stay mild during the day and cool at night. Rain is rare, so you can focus more on comfort and preparation than worrying about weather disruptions.
Best Clothing and Packing Tips
Daytime highs in December often reach 24–26°C (75–79°F), while nights can dip to 11–13°C (52–55°F). You’ll want clothes that work for both warm days and cooler evenings.
Bring layered outfits:
- Light cotton shirts for daytime
- A sweater or light jacket for evenings
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring
Even in winter, Medina’s sun is strong. Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. The air is dry, so lip balm and moisturizer help keep your skin comfortable.
Modest dress is expected, so pack long sleeves and loose-fitting clothes.
Outdoor Activities and Sightseeing
December’s cooler weather makes walking around Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah way more pleasant than in summer. You can visit spots like Al-Masjid an-Nabawi and other historical sites without the heat slowing you down.
With about 10 hours of daylight, there’s plenty of time to get outside. Markets, gardens, and nearby mountains are all easier to enjoy with manageable temperatures.
Keep in mind, Medina is a sacred city, and some areas are only open to Muslims. Plan your itinerary with respect for local customs. Early mornings and evenings feel cooler and less crowded, so they’re great for sightseeing.
Health and Safety Precautions
Even in winter, Medina’s desert climate can really sneak up on you with dehydration. Bring bottled water and sip often, especially if you’re outside for a while.
The dry air might leave your throat scratchy. I’d suggest carrying lozenges or just keeping a reusable bottle handy.
Air quality usually feels fine, but dust can rise when the wind picks up. If you’re sensitive, it’s smart to pack a light mask or a scarf.
Stick to local health guidelines. Medical services in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah work well, but they get crowded during busy religious travel times.
Keep an eye on prayer times and crowd patterns around the Prophet’s Mosque. That way, you can dodge congestion and move around more easily.
How December Weather in Medina Compares to Other Months
December in Medina feels pleasantly mild during the day, with cooler nights and a slightly higher chance of rain than most months. The shift from the brutal summer heat to something way more comfortable makes December stand out in temperature, rainfall, and humidity.
Seasonal Temperature Shifts
During December, you’ll see daytime highs around 26–27°C (78–80°F). Nights drop to about 11–12°C (51–54°F).
That’s a big drop from summer, when highs soar past 43°C (109°F) and even the nights stay above 25°C (77°F).
Compared to spring, December feels much more moderate. By March and April, temps already climb above 30°C (86°F), and in May, highs shoot up over 39°C (102°F).
December’s weather lines up pretty closely with January, which brings the coolest daytime temps, around 24°C (75°F).
You’ll probably find December’s weather perfect for getting outside. The cool nights feel like a true break from those endless summer evenings.
Rainfall Variations Across the Year
Rain in Medina doesn’t happen often, but December counts as one of the wetter months. You might get about 8 mm of rain over a few days.
That’s still not much, but it’s more than summer, when June and September usually see 0 mm.
The wettest stretch usually falls in November and December, with November averaging around 10 mm. Spring months like March and April might get a few showers, but totals rarely top 10 mm.
Rain tends to be brief and light, so it doesn’t usually mess up your plans. Still, December feels different, since most other months stay bone dry, making even a little rain stand out.
Humidity and Sunshine Differences
Medina usually has low humidity all year, though December feels a bit different. Humidity averages around 38% that month, which is noticeably higher than July’s dry 12%.
Honestly, July’s air can feel bone dry. In contrast, December’s humidity makes the air a bit softer on your skin.
Sunshine shifts a lot with the seasons too. December brings about 8–9 hours of sun each day.
From June through August, you’ll get closer to 12 hours of sun daily. That’s a big difference.
Shorter winter days just have a different vibe, even if the skies usually stay clear.
With a mix of higher humidity, less daylight, and cooler temperatures, winter in Medina stands out. The air isn’t as dry as summer, but it’s still comfortable enough to enjoy spending time outside.