If you’re planning a trip to Medina, you’ll want to think about the weather. The city sits in a desert climate, so temperatures swing from mild and pleasant in the winter to extremely hot in the summer.
The best time to visit Medina, Saudi Arabia based on weather is between November and February, when days stay comfortable and nights are cool.
During these months, you can move around the city with ease and enjoy long hours of sunshine. You’ll also avoid the intense summer heat.
Step outside this window, and conditions often turn harsh. Daytime highs can shoot well above 40°C, making outdoor activities tough.
Knowing when the climate works in your favor helps you get the most out of your trip. As you look at Medina’s weather patterns, best months, and seasonal changes, you’ll see how timing really shapes your experience.
Overview of Medina Weather Patterns
Medina, also called Al-Madinah al-Munawwarah, has a dry desert climate thanks to its inland location and surrounding mountains. You’ll find long, intensely hot summers and mild winters, with barely any rainfall most of the year.
Sunshine rules the sky here. Humidity usually stays low, except for a few cooler months.
Climate Type and General Conditions
Medina sits in western Saudi Arabia, about 600 meters above sea level. Its climate falls under the hot desert (arid) category.
Expect extremely sunny skies, almost no rain, and big differences between daytime and nighttime temperatures.
The city basks in over 3,800 hours of sunshine per year, making it one of the sunniest places around. Days are nearly always clear, and clouds are a rare sight.
Winters feel warm compared to other desert cities at the same latitude. Cold air fronts from the north don’t really make it to Medina, so freezing temperatures just don’t happen here.
Summers, though, are another story. From May through September, the heat ramps up and sticks around.
Annual Temperature Ranges
Medina’s temperatures jump around a lot depending on the season. In January, the coldest month, average lows hover near 12°C (54°F) and highs reach about 24°C (75°F).
Nights can sometimes dip near 6°C (43°F), but that’s pretty rare.
Come August, the hottest month, nights average 30.5°C (87°F) and days soar to 43.8°C (111°F). On the worst afternoons, you might see the thermometer go above 47°C (116°F).
Here’s a quick look at the monthly averages:
| Month | Avg Low °C | Avg High °C |
|---|---|---|
| January | 12 | 24 |
| April | 22 | 36 |
| July | 30 | 43 |
| August | 31 | 44 |
| December | 14 | 26 |
You’ll want to pack for hot days but also bring something for those cooler nights, especially outside summer.
Rainfall and Humidity Trends
Medina barely gets any rain, with an annual average of about 60 mm (2.3 in). Most showers show up between November and May, and they usually don’t last long.
November tends to be the wettest month, but even then, the totals are modest.
Because rain is so rare, the air stays dry. Humidity averages 10–20% in summer, which actually makes the heat a bit more bearable than along the coast.
In winter, humidity climbs a little, reaching around 30–35% in December and January.
Sometimes sudden downpours can cause flash floods, since the ground is so dry. But honestly, that doesn’t happen often. Most of the year, you’ll get dry, clear, and stable weather.
Best Months to Visit Medina for Ideal Weather
Medina’s desert climate means very hot summers and mild winters. The most comfortable periods for travel fall during the cooler months, when daytime temperatures are reasonable and rain barely shows up.
Winter Months: November to February
You’ll find the best weather in Medina during winter. Daytime temperatures usually sit between 12°C to 25°C (54°F to 77°F), so walking outdoors and visiting sites feels easy.
Rain hardly ever interrupts your plans, and when it does, it’s brief. Humidity stays low, so the air feels crisp and dry.
Nights can get a bit chilly, sometimes dropping below 15°C (59°F), so a light jacket comes in handy.
Travelers flock here in December and January. Hotels can get pricier, so booking early pays off. If you like mild, steady weather, winter really is the safest bet.
Spring Months: March to May
Spring brings a warm-up. By April, daytime highs often reach 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F).
It’s hotter than winter, but the dry air keeps things more manageable than in peak summer.
Rain is almost a non-issue, and sunshine fills the sky. Mornings and evenings stay cooler, giving you nice windows for exploring.
By May, highs creep closer to 38°C (100°F). If you’re here then, plan outdoor stuff early and duck into shade at midday.
For a lot of people, March and April hit that sweet spot between warmth and comfort.
Autumn Months: October to November
Autumn gives you another shot at pleasant weather in Medina. In October, highs average about 33°C (91°F), and November cools down to around 28°C (82°F).
Rain stays rare, and you’ll see mostly clear skies. Evenings cool off, so night walks or outdoor gatherings feel great.
You’ll probably notice fewer crowds than in winter, which can make travel easier and sometimes cheaper. If you want warmth without summer’s extremes, October and November are a solid choice.
Weather by Season in Medina
Medina’s desert climate brings very hot summers, mild winters, and not much rain. The weather shifts sharply between seasons, so planning around it helps you stay comfortable.
Winter: Mild and Pleasant
Winter in Medina runs from December to February. Daytime highs usually land between 24°C and 27°C, while nights cool off to 11°C–14°C.
Those temperatures make it a great time to explore the city.
Humidity bumps up a bit in winter, averaging around 35–38%, but it still feels dry compared to the coast.
Rain almost never bothers you, with January getting about 9 mm on average.
You can expect clear skies and plenty of sunshine. Light layers work during the day, but you might want a sweater at night.
This season is perfect for outdoor activities and visiting religious sites without worrying about heat.
Spring: Warming Temperatures
Spring stretches from March through May. Temperatures climb fast, moving from 28°C in March up to 38°C by late May.
Nights stay more comfortable, usually between 15°C and 22°C.
Rain barely shows up, but March and April might bring a quick shower or two. Humidity stays low, often between 15–25%, so the air gets even drier as it heats up.
By May, daytime heat can feel intense, so you’ll need sun protection, light clothes, and lots of water. Early spring is better for sightseeing, while late spring can already feel like summer.
Summer: Extreme Heat
Summer in Medina covers June through August. This is the hottest stretch, with daytime highs often hitting 43°C or higher.
Even at night, temperatures hover around 28°C–30°C, so don’t expect much relief.
Rainfall is almost nonexistent, with June sometimes recording just 0.1 mm. Humidity drops to about 12%, so the air feels dry, but the sun is relentless.
Outdoor activities during the day can be tough and sometimes unsafe if you’re not careful. If you visit in summer, stick to indoor plans, avoid midday sun, and drink plenty of water.
Light, breathable clothes are a must.
Autumn: Cooling Down
Autumn runs from September to November. The heat finally starts to back off, with highs falling from 40°C in September to about 30°C by November.
Nights cool too, going from 25°C in early autumn to around 17°C later on.
Humidity stays low, and rain barely makes an appearance, so conditions stay dry and sunny.
As the season goes on, the weather gets more comfortable for walking and exploring.
By November, you can enjoy nice daytime weather and cooler evenings. Autumn offers a welcome break from summer’s heat but still gives you plenty of sunshine.
Monthly Weather Breakdown in Medina
Medina’s desert climate brings very hot summers, mild winters, and hardly any rain. Sunshine dominates most of the year, but temperatures and humidity shift enough each month to affect your comfort and travel plans.
January to March: Cool and Dry
From January through March, you get the mildest weather of the year. Average daytime highs range from 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F).
Nights cool down to 9°C–17°C (48°F–63°F).
Rain is rare but most likely in these months, with totals between 3–9 mm per month. Even when it rains, showers pass quickly.
Humidity stays low, averaging 20–35%, so the air feels comfortable. Sunshine is generous, with 8–10 hours per day.
This season works well for walking tours, outdoor markets, and religious visits, since both days and nights feel pleasant.
April to June: Rising Temperatures
By April, Medina starts heating up. Average highs jump from 35°C (95°F) in April to about 43°C (109°F) in June.
Nights get warmer too, staying above 21°C (70°F) in April and 28°C (82°F) by June.
Rain almost disappears, with 0–6 mm per month, and skies stay mostly clear. The sun shines for 11–13 hours daily, so it’s incredibly bright.
Humidity drops to 10–20%, keeping the air dry. Still, the strong sun and climbing heat can make things tough, especially in June when highs may top 45°C (113°F).
If you visit during this time, schedule outdoor activities early or late when it’s more tolerable.
July to September: Peak Heat
July through September brings Medina’s hottest weather. Average highs hover around 42–44°C (108–111°F), and nights rarely dip below 26–30°C (79–86°F).
On the most extreme days, temperatures can spike to 48–49°C (118–120°F). Midday outdoor activity just isn’t a good idea without serious precautions.
Rain is basically absent, with totals near 0–4 mm. Sometimes you might catch a thunderstorm with lightning, but that’s rare.
Sunshine stays intense, averaging 12–13 hours daily, and humidity remains very low at 10–15%.
If you travel during these months, plan for indoor cooling, limit your time outside, and keep hydrated.
October to December: Comfortable Conditions
From October, the heat finally starts to ease. Average highs drop from 37°C (99°F) in October to 26°C (79°F) in December.
Nights cool down to 13–23°C (55–73°F), making evenings much nicer.
Rain picks up just a little, especially in November, which can see 14 mm—the wettest month of the year. Still, most days stay dry and sunny.
Daylight averages 8–11 hours, with sunshine covering 70–85% of the day. Humidity climbs modestly to 25–38%, but the air still feels dry compared to coastal cities.
This stretch offers great weather for sightseeing, religious visits, and exploring Medina without battling summer’s heat.
Travel Considerations Beyond Weather
When you plan a trip to Medina, you’ll want to consider more than just the weather. Religious events, visitor numbers, and basic health and safety factors can shape your experience just as much as the temperature.
Religious Events and Peak Seasons
Medina stands as one of Islam’s holiest cities, and major religious events shape its yearly rhythm. The city gets absolutely packed during Ramadan and the Hajj season—millions of pilgrims pour in, filling every corner.
Even if you’re not there for pilgrimage, you’ll feel the impact. Hotel rooms vanish, transportation slows, and crowds fill Al Masjid an Nabawi.
People can perform Umrah at any time, but most prefer the cooler months for comfort. November through February usually brings higher demand, so flights and accommodations in Madinah often sell out way ahead of time.
If you’d rather avoid the rush, skip peak pilgrimage seasons. Visiting outside those dates means you can move around more freely and actually enjoy religious and cultural sites without heavy congestion.
Crowd Levels and Accommodation
Visitor numbers in Medina swing up and down throughout the year. During religious seasons, hotels close to the Prophet’s Mosque fill up fast, and prices climb. Even the budget places get snapped up.
If you come outside of peak times, you’ll have more options and better rates. Stay a bit farther from the mosque and you’ll probably find quieter surroundings. Many hotels run shuttle services, so getting to the center isn’t much trouble, even if the streets get busy.
Book early if you want peace of mind. For the busiest months, grab your room and flights several months out. Off-peak travel? You might find last-minute deals, but don’t expect a wide selection.
Health and Safety Tips
Medina’s desert climate brings strong sun and dry air. Drink water often, wear light clothes, and slap on sunscreen to dodge dehydration and sunburn. Even when it’s cooler, the midday sun can still hit hard.
Peak season crowds can feel overwhelming. Keep your things close, plan extra time to get around, and pay attention to local safety advice inside and around the mosque.
Madinah’s medical facilities are modern, but it’s smart to bring basic meds and know what your insurance covers. If you’ve got health concerns, stick to cooler times of day and don’t overdo it in the heat.
Tips for Visiting Medina Based on Weather
Medina’s got a desert climate—hot summers, mild winters, barely any rain. If you’re ready for it, you’ll stay comfortable and actually enjoy your trip, instead of letting the weather ruin it.
What to Pack for Each Season
For trips between May and September, pack light, breathable clothing. Temperatures often soar above 40°C (104°F), so cotton or linen will save you. Steer clear of dark colors—they just soak up the heat.
In November to February, daytime temps hover around 20–30°C (68–86°F), but nights can get a little chilly. A light jacket or sweater comes in handy, especially after sunset. Good walking shoes are a must all year, since you’ll probably be on your feet exploring religious and cultural spots.
Rain hardly ever shows up, but when it does in winter, it’s brief and light. Tossing a small umbrella or thin rain jacket in your bag for December or January can’t hurt, but you’ll probably be fine without one.
Packing checklist by season:
- Summer (May–Sept): light fabrics, sunhat, sunglasses, sandals
- Winter (Nov–Feb): light jacket, long sleeves for evenings, closed shoes
- Spring/Autumn: mix of light clothing with one warmer layer
Staying Hydrated and Sun Protection
That dry desert air and high heat will dehydrate you fast, especially in summer. Always keep bottled water on hand and sip often, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Small, frequent sips work better than chugging a whole bottle at once.
Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin from intense sunlight. Reapply every few hours, especially if you’re outside for long stretches. A wide-brimmed hat and UV sunglasses help cut down on direct sun exposure.
Try to plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, when the sun isn’t at its worst. Midday heat can make walking miserable. If you can, stay indoors during those hours to avoid heat stress.
Making the Most of Your Trip
Try to adjust your schedule based on Medina’s weather if you want a more comfortable visit. In the cooler months, you’ll probably enjoy exploring landmarks like Al Masjid an Nabawi during the day without feeling overheated.
Winter’s also a great time to wander through outdoor markets or join walking tours. The milder air just makes everything feel easier.
If you’re visiting in the summer, stick to indoor activities around midday. Museums or relaxing in shaded spots can give you a much-needed break from the heat.
Save your outdoor adventures for early mornings or after the sun starts to set. That way, you avoid the worst of the heat.
When you pick your outfits, think about local customs and the weather. Loose, modest clothes work well—they fit in culturally and help you stay cool.
If you plan your days around the temperature, you’ll probably feel less tired and enjoy your trip a lot more.