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Weather Comparison

Riyadh vs Doha

Side-by-side weather comparison for December

Riyadh: 21°CDoha: 24°C493 km apart

December Weather: Riyadh vs Doha

MetricRiyadhDohaBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer21°C (70°F)24°C (75°F)Doha
Average LowHigher is milder9°C (48°F)16°C (61°F)Doha
Rain DaysFewer is drier2 days2 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier9 mm14 mmRiyadh
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier10h/day9h/dayRiyadh
HumidityLower is more comfortable78%70%Doha
UV IndexLower is safer22Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better18 km/h22 km/hRiyadh

Which City is Better in December?

Riyadh and Doha 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.

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

Riyadh reaches an average high of 21°C (70°F) and drops to 9°C (48°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 12°C, meaning significant temperature swings between day and night.

Doha averages 24°C (75°F) for the high and 16°C (61°F) for the low, with a daily range of 8°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

Riyadh receives approximately 9 mm of rainfall across 2 rain days during December. Rain is rare this month, so dry conditions are likely.

Doha sees 14 mm over 2 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

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

What to Pack: Riyadh vs Doha

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

Packing for Doha in December

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

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen

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

Year-Round Comparison: Riyadh vs Doha

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.

MonthRiyadhDoha
HighRainHighRain
Jan20°C2d22°C2d
Feb23°C1d23°C2d
Mar27°C2d27°C2d
Apr33°C3d32°C1d
May39°C1d38°C0d
Jun41°C0d40°C0d
Jul42°C0d41°C0d
Aug42°C0d41°C0d
Sep39°C0d39°C0d
Oct34°C0d35°C0d
Nov26°C2d29°C1d
Dec21°C2d24°C2d
21°

Riyadh Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

24°

Doha Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Riyadh warmer than Doha in December?
No. 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, Riyadh or Doha?
Both cities average 2 rain days in December with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit Riyadh or Doha in December?
It depends on your preferences. Riyadh averages 21°C and 10 hours of daily sunshine with 2 rain days. Doha averages 24°C with 9 sunshine hours and 2 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Doha. For fewer rain days, both are equal.
How far apart are Riyadh and Doha?
Riyadh and Doha are approximately 493 km (306 miles) apart. Riyadh is located in Saudi Arabia (Asia) while Doha is in Qatar (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Riyadh and Doha?
For Riyadh, June tends to be the best month with 12 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 41°C. For Doha, June is typically ideal with 13 sunshine hours and 40°C highs.

Compare Riyadh and Doha 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.

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