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Weather Comparison

Doha vs Riyadh

Side-by-side weather comparison for December

Doha: 24°CRiyadh: 21°C493 km apart

December Weather: Doha vs Riyadh

MetricDohaRiyadhBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer24°C (75°F)21°C (70°F)Doha
Average LowHigher is milder16°C (61°F)9°C (48°F)Doha
Rain DaysFewer is drier2 days2 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier14 mm9 mmRiyadh
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier9h/day10h/dayRiyadh
HumidityLower is more comfortable70%78%Doha
UV IndexLower is safer22Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better22 km/h18 km/hRiyadh

Which City is Better in December?

Doha and Riyadh are closely matched in December. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.

Doha sits in the comfortable travel range at 24°C. Riyadh is also comfortable at 21°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in December. Riyadh receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in December

Doha reaches an average high of 24°C (75°F) and drops to 16°C (61°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 8°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Riyadh averages 21°C (70°F) for the high and 9°C (48°F) for the low, with a daily range of 12°C. The 3°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in December.

Rainfall Comparison in December

Doha receives approximately 14 mm of rainfall across 2 rain days during December. Rain is rare this month, so dry conditions are likely.

Riyadh sees 9 mm over 2 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Humidity also differs: Doha averages 70% while Riyadh sits at 78%. Riyadh will feel muggier, especially at higher temperatures.

What to Pack: Doha vs Riyadh

Packing for Doha in December

Highs of 24°C, lows of 16°C, 2 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen

Packing for Riyadh in December

Highs of 21°C, lows of 9°C, 2 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Pack for both: light layers, a light jacket for evenings, sunscreen. These items are useful in either destination during December.

Year-Round Comparison: Doha vs Riyadh

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.December is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthDohaRiyadh
HighRainHighRain
Jan22°C2d20°C2d
Feb23°C2d23°C1d
Mar27°C2d27°C2d
Apr32°C1d33°C3d
May38°C0d39°C1d
Jun40°C0d41°C0d
Jul41°C0d42°C0d
Aug41°C0d42°C0d
Sep39°C0d39°C0d
Oct35°C0d34°C0d
Nov29°C1d26°C2d
Dec24°C2d21°C2d
24°

Doha Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

21°

Riyadh Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Doha warmer than Riyadh in December?
Yes. In December, Doha is warmer with an average high of 24°C (75°F) compared to Riyadh at 21°C (70°F), a difference of 3°C.
Which city gets more rain in December, Doha or Riyadh?
Both cities average 2 rain days in December with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit Doha or Riyadh in December?
It depends on your preferences. Doha averages 24°C and 9 hours of daily sunshine with 2 rain days. Riyadh averages 21°C with 10 sunshine hours and 2 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Doha. For fewer rain days, both are equal.
How far apart are Doha and Riyadh?
Doha and Riyadh are approximately 493 km (306 miles) apart. Doha is located in Qatar (Asia) while Riyadh is in Saudi Arabia (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Doha and Riyadh?
For Doha, June tends to be the best month with 13 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 40°C. For Riyadh, June is typically ideal with 12 sunshine hours and 41°C highs.

Compare Doha and Riyadh in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Doha coordinates: 25.29°N, 51.53°E | Riyadh coordinates: 24.71°N, 46.68°E