When to Visit Mecca
Year-round climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit by Travel Style
Beach & Relaxation
December to February offer the most comfortable temperatures for any outdoor relaxation, though Mecca is primarily a religious destination rather than a leisure travel spot.
Cultural Exploration
November to March provide the most pleasant conditions for exploring Islamic heritage sites and performing religious obligations with more manageable temperatures.
Adventure & Hiking
December to February are ideal for any hiking in nearby mountains or desert exploration, as summer temperatures make outdoor activities extremely challenging.
Budget Travel
June to August may offer lower accommodation rates due to extreme heat, though this is offset by the physical challenges of the harsh summer climate.
Month-by-Month Climate Guide
January
January offers the most comfortable weather in Mecca with mild daytime temperatures and cool evenings. This is considered one of the best months for pilgrimage activities. Occasional light rainfall may occur, providing brief relief from the typically arid conditions.
February
February continues the pleasant winter weather with comfortable temperatures for outdoor religious activities. Days remain warm but manageable, while nights can be quite cool. This month sees some of the year's limited rainfall.
March
March marks the beginning of rising temperatures as Mecca transitions toward summer. Weather remains relatively comfortable for most activities, though midday heat becomes more noticeable. Rainfall becomes increasingly rare.
April
April brings noticeably warmer weather with increasing heat during midday hours. Early morning and evening remain pleasant, but the intense summer heat begins to build. Very little precipitation occurs.
May
May signals the start of Mecca's intense summer season with very hot daytime temperatures. The heat becomes challenging for extended outdoor activities, and air conditioning becomes essential. Rainfall is virtually non-existent.
June
June brings extreme heat with scorching daytime temperatures that make outdoor activities very challenging. The intense dry heat dominates throughout the day and night. No significant rainfall occurs during this month.
July
July represents one of the hottest months in Mecca with extreme temperatures throughout the day. The heat is intense and persistent, making it physically demanding for visitors. Completely dry conditions prevail.
August
August continues the extreme summer heat with some of the year's highest temperatures. The oppressive heat makes outdoor activities very challenging, requiring careful planning and frequent breaks. No rainfall is expected.
September
September remains very hot but may show slight signs of the intense summer heat beginning to ease. Temperatures are still extreme and challenging for most outdoor activities. Dry conditions continue with minimal chance of rain.
October
October marks the beginning of more tolerable weather as temperatures start to decrease from summer peaks. Days remain hot but become more manageable, especially during morning and evening hours. Rainfall remains minimal.
November
November brings welcome relief from the summer heat with significantly more comfortable temperatures. This transitional month offers pleasant conditions for religious activities and sightseeing. Occasional light showers may occur.
December
December ushers in the comfortable winter season with pleasant daytime temperatures and cool evenings. This is considered one of the most favorable months for visiting Mecca. Light rainfall may provide occasional relief from the typically dry climate.