Winter in Cairo feels nothing like the burning hot Egypt most people picture. Daytime temperatures usually hang out between 9°C (48°F) and 20°C (68°F), so exploring the city feels pretty comfortable.
Nights can get a bit chilly, but the air stays dry. Most days, you’ll still see plenty of sunshine.
You won’t run into heavy rain or snow here. Rain rarely falls—just a few millimeters in December and January—so outdoor plans almost never get washed out.
Shorter daylight hours slow things down a bit, and the low UV index means you won’t have to battle the harsh sun that summer brings.
If you want to see Cairo’s ancient wonders without sweating buckets, winter is your best bet. The air feels crisp, the weather stays steady, and you can walk the Nile or visit the pyramids without much hassle.
Overview of Cairo’s Winter Climate
Cairo’s desert location shapes its winter: mild temps, barely any rain, and tons of sun. Nights cool off, days are shorter, and honestly, it’s a relief compared to those endless hot summers.
Desert Climate Characteristics
Cairo sits in a subtropical desert climate (BWh), which explains the city’s dry air and big swings between day and night temps. Rain is pretty much a non-event all year, and in winter, you’ll only see a few millimeters. Snow? Forget it.
Humidity usually stays between 55% and 61%, so the air doesn’t get too dry. Most of the time, you’ll see clear skies, just the occasional clouds drifting by.
Winter days last around 10 to 11 hours—shorter than summer, but still enough to get out and about. Sunshine averages about 6 to 7 hours per day in December and January, and you’ll notice a bit more by February.
After sunset, temperatures drop fast thanks to the desert setting. Daytime feels mild, but at night, you’ll want to bundle up a bit.
Weather Patterns During Winter
Winter in Cairo runs from December through February. Highs usually land between 18°C and 21°C (64°F–70°F), while lows dip to around 9°C–11°C (48°F–52°F). That’s pretty ideal for sightseeing or wandering the city.
Rain can happen, but it’s rare and light. December gets the most, with about 6 mm (0.24 in) spread over just a couple of days. You’ll probably notice a quick shower more than a steady rain.
The UV index drops to about 3–4 in winter, so sunburn risk is low. Winds mostly stay light to moderate, though sometimes you’ll get a gust that stirs up a bit of dust.
Typical Winter Temperatures in Cairo
Cairo’s winter feels cool but never harsh, especially compared to its infamous summers. Days stay mild, nights get a little nippy—January is usually the coldest, but nothing too wild.
Average Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures
Expect daytime highs between 19°C and 21°C (66°F–70°F). That’s perfect for walking tours or just hanging out outside without breaking a sweat.
Once the sun goes down, the air cools off fast. Lows often range from 10°C to 12°C (50°F–54°F), and sometimes it’ll dip just below 10°C. You won’t freeze, but a light jacket or sweater feels good after dark.
Humidity sticks around 60%, which can make evenings feel a bit colder than the numbers say. Since rain is rare, the air stays dry, so nights feel crisp, not damp.
The difference between day and night temps means you’ll want to dress in layers. Light clothes work for the day, but keep something warmer handy for later.
Monthly Temperature Variations
Winter covers December to February, with January being the coldest.
- December: Highs near 21°C (70°F), lows around 12°C (54°F).
- January: Highs near 19°C (66°F), lows around 10°C (50°F).
- February: Highs climb a bit to 21°C (70°F), lows about 11°C (52°F).
Daytime stays mild, but evenings get cooler, especially in January. The shift between months isn’t huge, but January nights are definitely the chilliest.
Rain barely makes an appearance, just a few millimeters each month. The steady weather makes it easy to plan outdoor stuff without worrying about sudden changes.
Humidity Levels in Cairo’s Winter
Winter humidity in Cairo stays moderate, especially compared to those sticky summer highs. The air remains fairly dry, making outdoor time more pleasant.
Average Humidity by Month
Average winter humidity sits between the mid-40s and mid-50s. December usually hits around 55%, while January and February hover near 52–54%. That’s lower than August’s peak at 61%, but higher than May’s driest days at 46%.
The air feels drier than it does in Mediterranean coastal cities. Minimal rain—just a few millimeters in December and January—keeps humidity from spiking.
| Month | Avg. Relative Humidity | Rainfall (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| December | ~55% | 6 mm |
| January | ~53% | 5 mm |
| February | ~52% | 3 mm |
These steady numbers mean you can plan your days without worrying about sudden humidity swings.
Impact of Humidity on Comfort
Moderate humidity makes winter feel comfortable. With daytime temps between 14°C and 20°C (57°F–68°F), you won’t get that heavy, sticky feeling—just crisp, dry air.
Mornings and evenings can feel colder than the thermometer says. Dry air lets heat escape fast, so a 15°C night can feel chillier than you’d expect.
If you like clear skies and dry weather, winter in Cairo delivers. People with sensitive skin or breathing issues might notice the dryness, though. Carrying moisturizer and drinking plenty of water helps.
This combo of mild temps and moderate humidity makes winter a great time for being outdoors in Cairo.
Precipitation Patterns and Rainfall
Rain almost never bothers Cairo in winter. Precipitation totals stay among the lowest for any big city, so you can plan outside activities with confidence.
Rainfall Frequency and Amount
Winter brings the city’s highest chance for rain, but we’re talking tiny amounts. December through February averages around 5–7 mm each month—barely anything next to Mediterranean cities.
Rain falls in quick bursts, not long showers. Sometimes, one storm brings most of the month’s rain. December is usually the wettest month, with about 6 mm over fewer than three days.
Snow just doesn’t happen, given Cairo’s desert climate and mild winters. Expect light rain that clears fast, leaving most days sunny and dry.
Rainy Days Distribution
Rainy days barely show up, even in the wettest months. December gets about 2–3 days with measurable rain, while January and February usually see just 1–2 days each. You might go weeks without a drop.
When it does rain, it’s usually a short, local shower. The city doesn’t get long, gloomy stretches, and most days stay bright. Still, packing a light jacket or umbrella in winter isn’t a bad idea.
Cairo keeps a dry vibe all year, even when it’s “rainy” season.
Wind Conditions During Winter
Winds in Cairo during winter stay steady but rarely get wild. Most days bring a moderate breeze, and sometimes a stronger gust will kick up dust or rattle some branches. These breezes can change how it feels outside, especially if you’re sightseeing or walking open streets.
Average Wind Speeds
Average winter wind speeds in Cairo run about 3 meters per second (m/s), or 11 km/h (6.7 mph). You’ll see flags flutter and trees move, but nothing dangerous.
Here’s what typical winter wind speeds look like:
| Month | Average Speed | Equivalent (km/h) | Equivalent (mph) |
|---|---|---|---|
| December | 3 m/s | 11 km/h | 6.7 mph |
| January | 3 m/s | 11 km/h | 6.7 mph |
| February | 4 m/s | 14.4 km/h | 8.9 mph |
February feels a bit breezier than the other months, but honestly, it’s not a huge jump. These winds keep the air moving without causing problems.
Seasonal Wind Trends
Winds start out calmer in December and pick up a little by February. That can mean more dust in open spaces or on less developed roads.
December and January usually bring mild, comfortable winds, making it easy to stay outside for hours. By February, the stronger breeze makes the air feel cooler, even if the temperature doesn’t change much.
Some days are super calm, while others get a few gusts that kick up sand or blow things around. That’s just part of winter in Cairo and rarely messes with your plans.
Additional Winter Weather Factors
Cairo’s winter isn’t just about mild temperatures—it’s also shaped by sunlight and how long the days last. Daylight hours, sunshine, and UV levels all affect how you’ll experience the season and what you might need to pack.
Sunshine Hours and Daylight
Winter days are shorter than summer, but you still get a good dose of sun. In December, you’ll see about 10 hours of daylight, and by February, that’s up to nearly 11 hours.
Actual sunshine—meaning the sun’s really out, not hiding behind clouds—averages 6 to 7 hours a day. That’s less than summer, but for winter, it’s still bright compared to many other places.
Mornings and evenings can feel cooler, thanks to the low sun angle. Midday usually feels just right, with the sun warming things up nicely.
If you’re planning to visit landmarks, you’ll want to start earlier in the day. Most outdoor sites are best between late morning and mid-afternoon, when the sun is high and the weather feels most comfortable.
UV Index and Exposure
Even in winter, Cairo’s desert setting keeps UV levels noticeable. The UV Index usually sits between 3 and 5. December lands at the lower end, while February creeps a bit higher as the days grow longer.
These numbers fall into the moderate range. It’s not summer-level intensity, but you can still get skin damage if you stay out too long.
I’d recommend wearing sunglasses with UV protection. You might also want to use sunscreen if you’ll be outside for a while.
A light hat or scarf can help keep the sun off your face.
The air usually stays dry, so the sun sometimes feels stronger than you’d expect, especially around noon.
If you take breaks in the shade and drink water often, you’ll probably feel a lot more comfortable outside.