As any visitor to Saudi Arabia will tell you, it can be incredibly hot. Tabuk is no exception to this, and the weather here can get very warm, but this northwestern city can also get chilly, with temperatures plummeting during winter (it’s been known to snow in the mountains during the colder months).
As such, it’s best to take the weather into account when planning a trip to Tabuk as it will likely impact what you plan to experience. However, outside of the typical tourist season, you’ll find fewer crowds, cheaper prices and more opportunities to tick off attractions. There are also some out-of-season festivals too!
What’s the weather like in Tabuk?
Temperatures in Tabuk vary from highs of up to 39°C in July and August to a much cooler high of 18°C in January (temperatures drop to around 4°C at night during the cooler months). As such, the typical tourist season (aka the best weather for exploring) in Tabuk runs from October to March, when temperatures in the shoulder months are around 25-30°C and around 20°C in the cooler months.
July and August are the hottest months in Tabuk and on occasion, the mercury does go higher than 39°C here – in August 2010, the temperature hit a staggering 46°C.
November to March are the best months for outdoor activities
The cooler months of November to March, when highs are around 25°C and nighttime lows are around 4°C, are perfect for exploring the deserts and oases close to Tabuk. Despite the cooler temperatures, there is very little rainfall, so wet weather is highly unlikely to disrupt outdoor activities. Book onto dune-bashing or stargazing tours to make the most of the cooler desert weather (wrap up warm if you’re staying out to stargaze – it’s chilly after dark).
Shoulder months are the best time to hit the beach
If you’re seeking a little more sunshine than the cooler winter months in Tabuk offer, look to visit the area in the shoulder season, when prices are likely to be a tad lower (although not as low as off-peak) and the sun a little brighter. In April, May and September, highs are between 30-34°C, making for perfect beach weather for those who like a little more heat. From Tabuk, you can travel to the Red Sea coast for excellent diving, and will also find plenty of beach parks and swimming spots to enjoy.
May, June and July are great for travellers on a budget
Flights to Saudi Arabia are cheapest in May, June and July, while accommodation in Tabuk is cheapest around June, with the exception of Hajj this year, (particularly if you are flexible with travel dates). Although there may be some excursions you’ll want to avoid during the warmer months in Tabuk, there are still plenty of air-conditioned indoor activities to take part in, while outdoor evening activities like stargazing are slightly more pleasant in summer.
Ramadan in Tabuk sees life slow down
Much like other places in Saudi Arabia, and the wider Arab world, Ramadan sees life in Tabuk slow down as people fast and pause for reflection and to spend time with families. Locals enjoy a suhoor prior to beginning their fasting, while the day ends with an Iftar after sundown. Outside of family homes, many restaurants and hotels hold fantastic Iftar feasts that are open to the public. You may find that many businesses, tours and activities either stop during Ramadan or are held on different schedules. Avoid eating or drinking in public if you visit Tabuk during Ramadan.
Celebrate Eid in Tabuk
Eid celebrations in Tabuk see the city come to life - fireworks displays take place in the evening, markets are busy and bustling, and decorations adorn homes and buildings. It brings a buzz of life after the reflective time of Ramadan, and you’ll find that businesses (especially shops) are open later than usual. However, be aware that activities and services remain on pause as people stop to celebrate the religious holiday with their families.
June and September are best for festivals
Outside of religious festivals, Tabuk celebrates festivals in June and September. In June, you’ll find the Tabuk Heritage Festival, which is a fantastic opportunity for visitors (and locals) to sample traditional foods, hear local music, browse artisan products and handicrafts, and learn more about the area’s rich cultural history. Tabuk also celebrates World Camel Day in June, and in 2023 held its first camel festival complete with racing competitions and entertainment. In September, Tabuk hosts the Tabuk Agriculture Festival, where local products are exhibited.
Does it ever snow in Tabuk?
In short, yes. Although somewhat surprising for those new to the Kingdom, the northern region of Saudi Arabia does indeed get some snowfall (in the mountains, anyway). In Tabuk’s mountains, such as Jabal al-Lawz, you can expect to see some snowfall most years (in the winter months), with a number of snowy activities available during this time. However, it’s usually limited to these areas only – you aren’t likely to find yourself trudging through piles of snow in the city.
