The Middle East is a very hot and dry region. If you come from Western countries, you must prepare your trip to avoid extreme temperature fluctuations.
The best times to visit the Middle East are in the colder months, from April to May and October to November.
Temperatures in these months are bearable. However, we still recommend packing light and airy clothes and keeping sunscreen and hats ready for beach retreats.
| Country | Best Months to Visit | Why Is It The Best Time to Visit? |
|---|---|---|
|
Bahrain |
December – March |
Many outdoor festivals take place in Bahrain in colder months, such as carnivals, games, live shows, and fireworks displays. |
|
Cyprus |
March – May, December – February |
Spring blooms between March and May, and cool breezes take over Cyprus in winter, while the Troodos Mountains become a sight to behold during snowfall. |
|
Egypt |
October – April |
Egypt’s winters are sunny and balmy, perfect for exploring the Pyramids of Giza and the Nile River. |
|
Iran |
March – May |
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Iran as Nowruz celebrations take place, and it is also ideal for visiting Persepolis and Shiraz. |
|
Iraq |
November – April |
Iraq has a range of exciting and ancient sites, such as the Remains of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon and Ishtar Gate. |
|
Jordan |
March – May, September – November |
Visiting Petra and Wadi Rum feels more comfortable during these months as the summer sun cools down. |
|
Kuwait |
November – March |
Kuwait is breezy and pleasantly warm during November, so it is the best time for a visit to Al-Mubarakiya, Kuwait Towers, etc. |
|
Lebanon |
March – May, September – November |
Spring and fall are perfect seasons for wine tastings, hiking, apple picking, bike riding, and museum tours in Lebanon. |
|
Oman |
July – September |
Between October and March is a great time to enjoy the lush green Khareef Season in Oman. |
|
Qatar |
November – April |
During the cooler months, visit Katara Amphitheatre, Khor Al Adaid, Souq Waqif, and other attractions in Qatar. |
|
Saudi Arabia |
November – February |
This is the perfect time for outdoor activities such as horseback riding, dune bashing, skydiving, paragliding, and hiking. |
|
Turkey |
March – May |
Spring is the best time to visit Turkey, especially due to the tulip season, hot-air balloon rides in Cappadocia, and Fairy Chimneys. |
|
United Arab Emirates |
October – April |
These months are great for enjoying Dubai’s Christmas markets, New Year’s Eve, and exciting dining and shopping activities. |
Between October and April, tourists can enjoy light sea breeze, cool and pleasant days, clear summer skies, and occasional rainfall in UAE.
This means there is plenty of room for the hottest pool and beach parties, luxury cruises, and desert safaris.
The Khareef Season in Salalah is breathtakingly beautiful. It is when the monsoon season arrives in Oman, and rains dominate every place, turning the dry landscape into rivers and waterfalls. The best time to visit Oman is from late June to early September to enjoy a much cooler and fresher climate.
The best time to visit Bahrain is during the winter months, which are most appropriate for beachside and swimming activities. The Bahrain malls have many open spaces, and we recommend visiting them when the weather is very pleasant.
November to February is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia. You should avoid traveling in summer as the temperatures can exceed 100 °F (38 °C). But plenty of luxurious hotels and resorts accommodate you comfortably even when you visit Saudi Arabia in the hot months.
Modest clothing, breathable fabrics, and head coverings in mosques.
Yes, many Middle Eastern countries are extremely safe for tourists, e.g., Qatar is one of the safest countries in the world.
Spring, fall, and winter. Summers should be avoided at all costs!
No, it is not necessary. All the major cities and tourist destinations in the Middle East commonly use the English language for tourists.
There are many unwritten rules you must follow in Middle Eastern cities. You can read them in detail in our blog, 18 Unwritten Rules And Etiquettes You Should Know Before Traveling To Abu Dhabi And The Rest Of The UAE.
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