Riyadh Weather in July

July heat

Riyadh in July is seriously hot. Daytime highs reach 44°C, and nights stay warm at around 28°C. The air is very dry, with no rain in the data, but that doesn't make being outdoors comfortable.

Save outdoor sightseeing for brief stops, and spend the hottest part of the day inside. The National Museum and the air-conditioned galleries at Kingdom Centre make better plans than a long walk around Diriyah. Even after sunset, the heat can linger.

What to do

If you love hiking, July isn't a good time for a long outdoor trek near Riyadh. A short visit to the Edge of the World is best avoided in the heat, especially since there's little shade. For a city break, focus on indoor sights, cafés and evening meals instead.

Travelling with kids? Keep outdoor stops short, and choose places with indoor space, such as Riyadh Park mall. A meal of kabsa, a spiced rice dish, is a good way to try a local favourite without spending long outside.

Crowds and events

July has no dependable annual festival in Riyadh. Islamic holidays follow the lunar calendar, so their dates shift and can sometimes fall in July. Check the calendar for your travel year if a holiday would affect your plans.

Summer is quieter than the popular November-to-February period, when the weather is far more comfortable. You may find fewer visitors and lower hotel prices than in those cooler months, though offers vary. For an easy, air-conditioned view over the city, head to the Sky Bridge at Kingdom Centre; you can avoid a long outdoor walk between sights.