Thinking about spending Christmas in Doha? You’ll probably love the mild and pleasant weather that makes getting outside a breeze. Daytime temperatures usually sit around 24–25°C, and evenings drop to a cooler 15–17°C.
Rain hardly ever shows up, maybe just a couple of light showers in the whole month. Most days stay dry, so you can relax and enjoy your plans.
December brings shorter days—just over ten hours of daylight—but there’s still plenty of sunshine. The air feels much cooler than the brutal summer heat, and honestly, that makes exploring Doha so much more enjoyable. Whether you’re walking the Corniche or checking out museums, it’s a great time to be out and about.
The city feels calmer this season, which pairs well with the holiday vibe. Sure, Christmas isn’t a public holiday in Qatar, but the weather creates a perfect backdrop for sightseeing, eating outside, or even hanging out by the sea.
Typical December Weather in Doha
By December, Doha shifts into its mild winter season. You’ll get warm afternoons, cooler nights, and barely any rain, making it one of the best months for being outdoors.
Average Temperatures During Christmas
Daytime highs in December usually reach 24–26°C (75–79°F). It’s warm but not stifling—definitely a relief after the intense summer.
At night, temperatures often dip to 16–18°C (61–64°F). If you’re heading out in the evening, you might want to throw on a light sweater or jacket.
The shift from day to night is gradual, so you won’t feel any wild swings. Most people adjust easily to these changes.
Quick reference:
| Time of Day | Average Temperature |
|---|---|
| Afternoon | 24–26°C (75–79°F) |
| Evening | 16–18°C (61–64°F) |
Rainfall Patterns and Precipitation
December brings the highest chance of rain in Doha, but it’s still pretty light. Expect about 10–20 mm of rainfall for the whole month.
Rain falls on just 1–3 days, usually as quick showers. These don’t stick around long, and skies clear up fast.
You won’t need heavy rain gear. If you want to be cautious, a small umbrella or light waterproof jacket is enough.
Key points:
- Average monthly rainfall: ~15 mm
- Rainy days: 1–3
- Rain type: short, scattered showers
Humidity Levels in December
Humidity hovers around 65–75% in December. That might sound high, but the cool air makes it feel comfortable, especially compared to the sticky summers.
Mornings can feel a bit damp, especially near the water. By afternoon, the sun dries things out.
With mild humidity and lots of sunshine, December is a solid month for sightseeing. Just remember to drink water—desert air can still dry you out, even when it feels cool.
Humidity profile:
- Average: 71%
- Higher in mornings, lower in afternoons
- Comfortable compared to summer months
Daylight, Sunshine, and UV Index
Doha’s days get shorter in December, but you still get plenty of daylight. The skies stay bright, and while the UV index drops from summer levels, you should still take care if you’re outside for long stretches.
Daylight Hours and Sunrise/Sunset Times
Around Christmas, you’ll get 10 hours of daylight. The sun rises close to 6:15 AM and sets around 4:45 PM.
These times barely change through December, so planning your day is easy.
Sure, it’s shorter than summer’s 13-hour days, but there’s still time for plenty of outdoor fun. The sun sets early, which is handy if you want to plan dinners or evening outings.
With steady daylight hours, you can confidently schedule sightseeing or outdoor trips. The cooler weather also makes the midday sun much more bearable.
Average Daily Sunshine
Even with shorter days, Doha gets about 299 hours of sunshine in December—that’s roughly 9–10 hours per day. It’s just a touch less than November and way sunnier than most winter spots.
You’ll see clear skies about 60% of the time. Rain is rare, and even when it happens, it’s over quickly.
This steady sunshine means you can count on good weather for exploring. Whether you’re at Souq Waqif or out in the desert, odds are you’ll have bright skies.
UV Index and Sun Safety
The UV index in December averages 5, which lands in the moderate zone. It’s much lower than the summer’s extreme 11, but sun protection still matters.
At this level, your skin can burn in about 30 minutes. It’s smart to use SPF 30+ sunscreen, grab some sunglasses, and maybe wear light clothing that covers your arms and legs, especially midday.
With the sun less intense, mornings and late afternoons feel especially nice for being outside. Still, don’t forget about UV exposure—it’s easy to overlook in winter.
Sea Temperature and Outdoor Activities
In December, the sea around Doha stays warm enough for swimming, and the air feels mild. Water conditions make it easy to hit the beach or try other outdoor activities without the scorching heat.
Sea Temperature Expectations
The sea temperature usually sits between 21°C and 26°C (70°F to 79°F). Early December feels warmer, around 25°C (77°F), while late December cools to about 22°C (72°F).
This drop happens gradually, so the water stays refreshing—not too cold. For reference, summer waters in Qatar can reach a steamy 34°C (94°F), so December feels balanced.
On average, the sea is about 23°C (73°F) all month. Most swimmers find this pretty comfortable—definitely warmer than the Mediterranean at this time.
If you like your water warmer, try to swim earlier in the month. Later on, it might feel brisk at first, but it’s still good for a quick dip.
Swimming and Beach Conditions
The air and sea temperatures in December set up great swimming conditions. Daytime air is around 24°C (75°F), and nights drop to 16°C (60°F), so the beach never feels too hot.
The Persian Gulf stays calm, with fewer strong winds than summer. Average wind speeds are about 14 km/h (9 mph)—gentle enough for swimming and light water sports.
You’ll rarely see rain, with just 2 days of precipitation expected all month. Beach days probably won’t get interrupted.
Lower humidity makes drying off and lounging outside even nicer. You can swim, stroll the Corniche, enjoy seaside cafés, or sunbathe for a bit under the winter sun.
How Doha’s December Weather Compares to the Rest of Qatar
Doha’s December weather feels mild and cooler than most of the year, but other parts of Qatar can be a bit different. Depending on where you are—coast or inland—you’ll notice changes in temperature, rain, and humidity.
Weather Differences Across Major Cities
In Doha, December highs usually hit 23–25°C (73–77°F), and nights cool to 15–17°C (59–63°F). The city sees about 12 mm of rain, which isn’t much, but it’s still the wettest month.
Head north to Al Khor, and the temperatures are nearly identical, though the coastal breeze can make nights feel chillier. In Al Wakrah, just south of Doha, the climate is similar, but humidity might feel a bit higher since it’s right on the coast.
Inland places like Al Rayyan can get a little warmer during the day, but nights cool off fast. Out west, desert towns like Dukhan often feel drier, with less humidity and a bit more wind.
| City | Avg High (°C) | Avg Low (°C) | Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Doha | 24 | 15 | 12 |
| Al Khor | 23–24 | 14–15 | 11 |
| Al Wakrah | 24 | 15–16 | 12 |
| Dukhan | 24–25 | 13–14 | 9 |
Regional Climate Variations
Qatar’s small size keeps differences minor, but you’ll still notice contrasts between the coast and inland. Coastal cities like Doha, Al Wakrah, and Al Khor usually feel more humid, especially at night.
Wind off the Gulf can make it feel cooler than the thermometer says. Inland, in places like Al Rayyan and the desert, the air is drier.
You’ll probably notice colder nights inland, sometimes dropping to 13°C (55°F). These areas also get clearer, cooler nights with less cloud cover.
Rain stays light everywhere, but coastal spots get a bit more than inland. December is still one of the only months you’ll see any rain in Qatar.
This mix of coastal humidity and inland dryness shapes your experience, depending on where you stay.
What to Pack for Christmas in Doha
During December, Doha’s days are warm and sunny, but evenings can get cool. If you pack light, breathable clothes and toss in a warmer layer for night, you’ll be set. Don’t forget stuff that protects you from the sun and dry air.
Clothing Recommendations for December
Expect daytime highs around 25°C (77°F) and cooler evenings near 17°C (63°F). Light clothes work for the day, but bring a sweater or jacket for after dark.
Pack cotton t-shirts, polos, or blouses for daywear. Lightweight trousers, long skirts, or knee-length dresses keep you comfortable and fit local customs.
Shorts are fine in some tourist areas, but longer options are better for cultural spots.
For evenings, you’ll want a light sweater, cardigan, or denim jacket. If you’re planning to eat outside or walk the Corniche, that extra layer makes a difference.
Closed-toe shoes or sneakers are good for walking, and sandals work for daytime. Modesty matters in Qatar, so skip anything too tight or revealing.
A scarf or shawl can come in handy for warmth or covering up at cultural sites.
Essential Travel Items for the Climate
December gives you over 7 hours of daylight on average, and the sun still packs a punch. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself.
Rain is rare—just about 2 days of light rain—so you don’t need heavy rain gear. A small umbrella could be handy, just in case.
Humidity can reach 70%, so stick to lightweight, breathable fabrics. A reusable water bottle helps you stay hydrated.
Other smart items: comfortable walking shoes, a small backpack for day trips, and travel-size toiletries since the dry air can bother your skin. Lip balm and moisturizer are must-haves to fight dryness.
Travel Tips for Visiting Doha During Christmas
Doha in December serves up warm days, cool evenings, and barely any rain. It’s a great time for outdoor activities, as long as you keep local customs and the weather in mind.
Best Outdoor Activities for December
In December, Doha’s weather usually hovers around 25°C during the day and cools down to about 17°C at night. Honestly, it’s one of the nicest months to get outside and explore.
You might want to stroll along the Doha Corniche. It’s a waterfront promenade, and you’ll get great views of the city skyline and the bay.
The cooler air feels perfect if you decide to wander through Souq Waqif. You can shop, grab a bite, or just watch some traditional performances happening around you.
People often enjoy cultural spots like the Museum of Islamic Art Park in December. The open spaces feel breezy and shaded, so you won’t be sweating it out.
If you’re up for something more active, try a desert safari or go dune bashing. The weather makes those adventures way more comfortable.
Sports fans have plenty to do, too. The winter season brings local football matches and outdoor events that are a lot more fun when it’s not scorching.
At Aspire Park, you can picnic or get in some light exercise. It’s actually enjoyable without the heavy summer heat slowing you down.
Weather-Related Considerations for Tourists
December brings cooler weather, but the sun still packs a punch. You’ll want to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat since Doha gets over 240 hours of sunshine this month.
Evenings get a bit chilly, so toss a light sweater or jacket in your bag for comfort. You’ll rarely see rain—just about 2 days of precipitation on average—so there’s really no need for heavy rain gear.
Humidity often sits around 70%, making the air feel warmer than you might expect. If you’re outside a lot, staying hydrated is key.
Qatar’s dress codes tend to run conservative. Lightweight, modest clothes—think cotton shirts, long trousers, or skirts with a light jacket—usually strike the right balance between comfort and respect for local customs.