📅 Best Time to Visit Jeddah – The Gateway to the Red Sea 🌊
Jeddah, known as "The Gateway to the Red Sea," is a vibrant coastal city rich in history, culture, and modern attractions. Whether you're interested in exploring Al-Balad’s historical districts, enjoying Jeddah’s stunning beaches, diving in the Red Sea, or experiencing cultural festivals, choosing the right time to visit is crucial for an enjoyable trip.
🌤️ Best Time of the Year to Visit Jeddah
🏖️ Ideal Travel Season: November – March (Winter & Early Spring)
Average Temperature: 20°C – 30°C (68°F – 86°F)
Why Visit?
✅ Pleasant weather for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and beach trips.
✅ Best time for exploring Al-Balad, Jeddah Corniche, and open-air markets.
✅ Ideal season for scuba diving and snorkeling in the Red Sea.
✅ Peak time for festivals, cultural events, and art exhibitions.
💡 Insider Tip:
Book accommodations early as this is the peak tourist season.
☀️ Hot Season: April – June (Spring & Early Summer)
Average Temperature: 28°C – 38°C (82°F – 100°F)
Why Visit?
✅ Great time for diving & water sports, as the sea is warm and clear.
✅ Fewer crowds at popular attractions.
✅ Moderate evening temperatures allow for pleasant walks along Jeddah Corniche.
💡 Insider Tip:
Avoid sightseeing in the afternoon when temperatures are at their highest.
Opt for early morning or sunset visits to outdoor attractions.
🔥 Hottest Season: July – September (Peak Summer)
Average Temperature: 35°C – 45°C (95°F – 113°F)
Why Visit?
✅ Ideal for indoor attractions, luxury hotels, shopping malls, and spa resorts.
✅ Best time for diving since the water is warm and marine life is active.
✅ Less crowded compared to winter months.
❌ Things to Avoid:
Extreme heat can make walking tours and outdoor sightseeing uncomfortable.
Historical sites like Al-Balad can be challenging to explore during the day.
💡 Insider Tip:
Visit beaches, islands, and resorts in the morning or late afternoon.
🍂 Shoulder Season: October (Early Fall)
Average Temperature: 28°C – 35°C (82°F – 95°F)
Why Visit?
✅ Transition period from summer to winter with cooler temperatures.
✅ Good time for snorkeling, island hopping, and fishing trips.
✅ Less crowded than peak winter months.
💡 Insider Tip:
October is a great time to visit before tourist season picks up.
🎭 Best Festivals & Events in Jeddah
Festival/Event Month Highlights
Jeddah Season 🎉 June – July Concerts, cultural shows, theme parks, fireworks.
Red Sea International Film Festival 🎥 December Global film screenings, celebrity guests, industry panels.
Jeddah Art Week 🎨 February Exhibitions, street art, cultural performances.
Saudi National Day 🇸🇦 September 23 Fireworks, parades, traditional music, and cultural performances.
Ramadan & Eid Celebrations 🕌 Varies by Islamic Calendar Night markets, festive feasts, and cultural traditions.
💡 Insider Tip:
Jeddah Season (June-July) is one of the biggest cultural events, with food festivals, concerts, and shopping discounts.
📍 Best Time of Day for Popular Attractions
Attraction Best Time to Visit Why?
Al-Balad (Old Jeddah) Morning or Evening Avoid the heat, best for photography.
Jeddah Corniche Sunset to Night Cooler weather, beautiful Red Sea views.
Floating Mosque (Al Rahma Mosque) Early Morning Best lighting for photography, fewer crowds.
King Fahd’s Fountain After Sunset Best visibility of the illuminated water show.
Red Sea Diving & Snorkeling Morning (8 AM – 11 AM) Best water clarity & marine life activity.
💡 Insider Tip:
Visit Al-Balad at night when souks are lively and historic streets are beautifully lit.
🏨 Best Time for Budget-Friendly Travel
Best Time for Hotel Discounts: May – September (Low Season)
Peak Prices: November – March (Winter Season)
Recommended Areas to Stay:
✅ Al Hamra District – Luxury seaside hotels & resorts.
✅ Al-Balad – Historical hotels for cultural travelers.
✅ Obhur Beach Area – Best for resort-style vacations near the Red Sea.
💡 Budget Tip:
If traveling in peak season (Nov – Mar), book at least 3-4 weeks in advance for the best rates.
🚗 Best Transportation & Travel Tips
🚖 Best Time to Travel Around Jeddah: Early morning & late evening to avoid traffic.
🚘 Recommended Transport: Uber, Careem, or rental cars for convenience.
🛳️ For Red Sea Adventures: Book snorkeling or diving trips early morning for the clearest waters.
🕌 For Religious Visitors: Friday mornings are the busiest at major mosques; plan accordingly.
🎯 Summary: Best Time to Visit Jeddah
Season Best For Temperature Travel Tips
November – March (Winter) Best overall season – sightseeing, beaches, festivals 20°C – 30°C Book in advance, peak tourist season.
April – June (Spring) Good for diving & fewer crowds 28°C – 38°C Visit outdoor spots in the morning/evening.
July – September (Summer) Best for diving & Red Sea resorts 35°C – 45°C Avoid midday heat, focus on water activities.
October (Early Fall) Great for outdoor activities 28°C – 35°C Less crowded before winter season begins.
🏆 Final Recommendation – Best Time Based on Interests
Traveler Type Best Time to Visit
Cultural Travelers (Heritage & Museums) November – March
Beach & Water Sports Lovers April – June
Diving & Snorkeling Enthusiasts July – September
Festival & Event Seekers June (Jeddah Season), December (Film Festival)
Budget Travelers May – September (Hotel discounts)
Jeddah is a year-round destination, but November to March offers the best weather and cultural experiences. 🌊🏝️✨
