Planning a trip to Jeddah during Christmas? You’ll get to enjoy warm weather while most of the world shivers. Daytime highs usually reach about 29°C (84°F), and nights cool down to around 21°C (70°F), so the climate feels comfortable for sightseeing or hanging out outside.
Unlike many places in December, Jeddah welcomes you with mild conditions and just a slight chance of rain. Most days are sunny, and humidity stays low to moderate, so the air feels pleasant instead of sticky.
The Red Sea remains warm, making swimming and water activities tempting, even in winter. Sometimes you might catch a brief shower, but it’s rare and usually doesn’t ruin your plans.
This combo of warmth, manageable humidity, and bright skies gives the city a vibe that’s both relaxing and energizing. If you’re dreaming of a holiday where you can be outdoors without bundling up, Jeddah at Christmas really delivers.
Overview of Jeddah’s Climate in December
December in Jeddah brings warm days, mild nights, and almost no rain. You can comfortably enjoy outdoor activities, and the sea stays warm enough for swimming or water sports.
Climate Classification and Location
Jeddah sits on the western coast of Saudi Arabia along the Red Sea. The city falls under a hot desert climate (BWh) in the Köppen system. This means you’ll find high temperatures, lots of sunshine, and very little rainfall most of the year.
Because Jeddah hugs the sea, the heat isn’t as intense as it is inland. The Red Sea keeps nighttime temperatures from dropping too much, even when it’s cooler.
Humidity in December averages around 60%, which feels much better than the sticky summer months. Breezes from the sea help, making the air less dry than what you’d get in central Saudi Arabia.
Winter Weather Patterns
December usually brings the best weather of the year to Jeddah. Daytime highs hover around 28–29°C (82–84°F), and nights dip to about 21–23°C (70–73°F).
Rain barely makes an appearance this month. You might get one day of light rain at most, with totals under 20 mm. Skies tend to stay clear, and you get nearly 11 hours of daylight, so there’s plenty of time to explore.
The Red Sea water temperature holds steady at about 27–28°C (80–82°F), warm enough for swimming, snorkeling, or diving. The UV index drops compared to summer, but sun protection still matters.
Comparison with Other Seasons
December feels much cooler and less humid than summer. In July, highs can shoot past 40°C (104°F) with oppressive humidity, so outdoor fun is tough. December skips those extremes and brings steadier, more comfortable conditions.
Spring and autumn are similar, but December is slightly cooler. For example, April or October often see highs in the mid-30s°C, while December stays under 30°C.
November usually brings the most rain, but December dries out again. That makes it a reliable month for travel, with fewer weather surprises.
Typical Temperatures Around Christmas
Late December in Jeddah feels warm and comfortable, especially compared to the city’s blazing summers. Days are mild enough for outdoor plans, and evenings cool off but stay pleasant.
Average Highs and Lows
Around Christmas, you’ll see average daytime highs near 28–30°C (82–86°F). It’s warm, but not stifling, especially with the lower humidity.
Nights usually cool to 21–23°C (69–73°F). You can stroll the Corniche or eat outside without reaching for a jacket.
The average temperature around Christmas sits close to 26°C (79°F). That balance of warmth and cooler nights makes December stand out from the hotter months, where highs soar past 40°C (104°F).
| Time of Day | Typical Temperature |
|---|---|
| Daytime High | 28–30°C (82–86°F) |
| Nighttime Low | 21–23°C (69–73°F) |
| Average Daily | ~26°C (79°F) |
Daytime and Nighttime Variations
During the day, the sun keeps things warm but not overwhelming. Afternoons feel hotter if you’re in direct sunlight, especially in open spots with little shade.
After sunset, temperatures drop into the low 20s Celsius. The evenings feel cooler, making it easy to check out outdoor markets, walk by the sea, or meet up with friends.
Thanks to the Red Sea, the water temperature stays around 28°C (82°F) in December. This keeps the nights from getting too chilly and lets you swim comfortably.
Historical Temperature Extremes
Most December weather stays steady, but records show it can swing a bit. Occasionally, highs have spiked above 32°C (90°F) when dry desert air blows in.
On the flip side, the coldest December nights can drop to 18–19°C (64–66°F). These chilly spells don’t last long, but you might feel a bit of a nip in the early morning.
So, while averages are reliable, it’s smart to prepare for a few degrees of variation around Christmas.
Humidity and Comfort Levels in Late December
Humidity in Jeddah during late December feels moderate, especially compared to the muggy summer. You’ll notice the air is warm but more comfortable, making it easier to get out and explore.
Average Humidity Trends
In December, average humidity usually sits around 60–65%, much lower than the sticky highs of summer. This range strikes a nice balance—not too dry, not too damp.
Daytime highs near 29°C mix with this moderate humidity to create a heat index that feels a touch warmer, but it’s not overwhelming. At night, when temperatures dip to 23°C, the air feels especially pleasant.
Rainfall barely registers, with just about one day of light rain for the month. This keeps the air clear and helps avoid heavy moisture. The Red Sea also helps keep humidity steady compared to inland areas.
Because humidity rarely spikes, you won’t have to deal with the muggy, heavy air you might find in tropical places. Most people find the climate steady and manageable.
Effects on Outdoor Activities
Moderate humidity in December makes it easy to enjoy walking tours, outdoor markets, and waterfront strolls without getting overheated. You might feel some warmth in the middle of the day, but mornings and evenings are especially nice.
The sea stays warm at about 28°C, and humidity doesn’t get in the way of swimming or snorkeling. Water activities stay pleasant, and the air feels warm but not stifling.
If you’re heading out for longer adventures, light, breathable clothes work best. Heavy rain gear isn’t needed, but don’t forget to drink water to avoid dehydration in the dry air.
For sightseeing, the humidity helps you keep your energy up, without the fatigue that comes from heavy, damp air. December is one of the best times of year to get outside and explore Jeddah.
Precipitation and Rainfall Patterns
Jeddah barely sees any rain during the year, and December is no different. When rain does come, it’s usually a quick burst rather than a long, soggy period.
Average Rainfall in December
December brings about 10 to 15 mm of rain on average. That’s just a tiny slice of Jeddah’s yearly total of about 80–85 mm. Most of the city’s rain falls between November and January.
Showers are usually short but can be heavy. You might see a sudden downpour, then clear skies right after. Unlike places with steady winter rain, Jeddah’s precipitation is irregular and tough to predict.
For comparison:
| Month | Avg. Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|
| November | ~25–30 |
| December | ~10–15 |
| January | ~15–20 |
So, December is wetter than most months, but it’s still pretty dry overall.
Rainy Days and Frequency
You’ll probably see only 1 to 2 rainy days in Jeddah during December. These aren’t all-day rains—storms show up fast, drop some rain, and move on.
Most days are dry and clear, with less than a 10% chance of rain on any given day.
When it does rain, temporary street flooding can happen since the city’s drainage isn’t great. Even a little rain might slow down traffic. Still, showers are short-lived, and the dry weather bounces back quickly.
For most visitors, December rain is more of a brief event than a real worry.
Sunshine Hours and Daylight During Christmas
In late December, Jeddah offers steady sunshine and reliable daylight. The skies usually stay clear, so you can plan outdoor activities without much hassle.
Average Sunshine Duration
You’ll get about 9 hours of sunshine per day around Christmas. That’s less than the summer, but still plenty for long stretches outside without the scorching heat.
The sun shines through mostly clear skies, and there’s only a slim chance of clouds or rain. December’s rare rainfall means sunshine hours are pretty consistent.
For comparison:
- Summer months (May–August): ~11–12 hours of sunshine daily
- December: ~9 hours of sunshine daily
So, you get bright weather, but with a gentler, more comfortable feel. December is a great time to explore the city or relax by the Red Sea.
Daylight Changes in December
Daylight hours in Jeddah barely shift during December. The shortest day of the year falls in this month, lasting about 10 hours and 40 minutes, while the longest day stretches past 13 hours.
At midday, the sun climbs to about 68° above the horizon, so you still get strong light even in winter. You can plan your activities without worrying about early sunsets or sudden darkness.
These daylight patterns, along with the mild weather, make it easy to sightsee, shop, or dine outside well into the evening. You get enough daylight for your plans, and the evenings are comfortable without the harsh summer heat.
Wind Conditions and Sea Temperature
Late December brings steady breezes off the Red Sea and sea temperatures that stay warm enough for swimming. Conditions are stable, and rain rarely interrupts outdoor or water activities.
Typical Wind Speeds
Winds in Jeddah during December are usually moderate. They average between 10 to 15 km/h (6–9 mph), mostly blowing in from the northwest.
Mornings tend to be calm, but afternoons can feel breezier. Gusts over 20 km/h (12 mph) do happen, but they’re not common. This makes it comfortable to walk the Corniche or enjoy a meal outdoors by the sea.
If you’re sensitive to wind, you’ll probably appreciate the cooler season’s pleasant airflow compared to the hotter, dustier summer. Breezes also help drop the humidity, so the air feels fresher even though it’s still warm.
Red Sea Water Temperature
The Red Sea stays warm all year, and December’s no different. Near Jeddah, average surface temperatures hover around 26–27°C (79–81°F), which honestly feels warmer than a lot of tropical spots in December.
Because the sea’s pretty deep and salty, it holds onto its warmth. You’ll notice the water stays toasty whether you’re swimming close to shore or out a bit farther.
Even at night, the water barely cools off compared to the day.
These stable conditions make the Red Sea a great pick for swimmers and divers alike. The water’s clarity stands out, so if you’re into snorkeling or checking out coral reefs, you’ll love it.
Swimming and Water Activities
You can swim in the Red Sea in December and probably won’t need a wetsuit. Mild air and warm water make it easy to stay in for a while.
Snorkeling, scuba diving, and paddleboarding are all popular here. Calm winds usually keep the surface smooth, which helps if you’re not an expert swimmer.
If you’re planning water sports, mornings tend to be the calmest for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. By the afternoon, a light breeze sometimes brings in small waves, making it fun for sailing or windsurfing but still easy enough for a relaxed outing.
Nearby Destinations and Regional Influences
Jeddah’s late December climate really shows its Red Sea roots, but the nearby inland areas add their own twist. Geography, travel routes, and local culture all shape what you’ll feel and what you should pack.
Influence of Mecca on Jeddah’s Weather
Mecca sits about 70 km inland from Jeddah. Since it’s higher up and farther from the sea, you’ll find slightly warmer days and cooler nights there compared to Jeddah.
Humidity drops in Mecca because the Red Sea doesn’t help moderate the air.
In December, Jeddah usually gets 29°C (84°F) highs and 20°C (68°F) lows. Mecca tends to be a bit hotter during the day.
Rain’s rare in both cities, but heavier showers can show up inland thanks to the terrain.
So, if you’re heading between Jeddah and Mecca, expect some subtle shifts. Jeddah feels more humid and breezy, while Mecca’s drier and hotter, especially as the afternoon rolls on.
These differences might change what you wear or how much water you need, so it’s good to keep them in mind.
Travel Tips for Visiting During Christmas
If you’re staying in Jeddah around Christmas, pack light clothing for warm afternoons. Toss in a light jacket for evenings too.
The cooler nighttime temperatures near the coast might catch you off guard if you’re expecting nonstop heat.
Thinking about a side trip to Mecca? Definitely bring comfortable walking shoes and breathable fabrics.
The drier inland climate means you really need to stay hydrated, especially if you spend hours outside.
You’ll find transportation between Jeddah and Mecca pretty straightforward, with modern highways and plenty of travel options. Still, holiday crowds and inland traffic can slow things down.
Try to plan your travel early in the day, since that helps you dodge peak congestion and the hotter parts of the afternoon.