When will winter end in Saudi Arabia in 2026, and what is the weather forecast?
The official spokesperson for the National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia announced the imminent end of winter, indicating that the Kingdom will bid farewell to the season in just 12 days, after which the signs of spring will gradually begin to appear across the country. This announcement comes amidst widespread public anticipation of weather changes, particularly following a winter season described by many as "warmer than usual.".
This year's winter features: unusual warmth
Most cities and provinces in the Kingdom experienced weather this year that differed significantly from what residents are accustomed to in previous years. According to meteorological reports, many areas barely felt the biting cold that characterizes winter desert nights. The scientific reason behind this relative warmth is that cold air masses were concentrated mainly over the northern and central regions, preventing them from penetrating deeply into other areas, especially the coastal regions, which maintained moderate to warm temperatures throughout the season.
Climate diversity and its impact on regions
Saudi Arabia's vast geographical diversity results in significant climatic variations across its different regions. While northern areas such as Tabuk, Hail, and the Northern Borders region experience relatively low temperatures, coastal areas along the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf, such as Jeddah and Dammam, remain under the influence of warmer, more humid conditions. This contrast reflects the continental nature of the inland climate versus the maritime climate along the coast, which explains why coastal residents often feel winter ends early or don't experience its full severity.
Preparing for spring and weather fluctuations
As winter draws to a close, the Kingdom typically experiences a transitional period characterized by rapid weather fluctuations. This period is crucial for the agricultural and environmental sectors, as farmers and nature enthusiasts eagerly await spring, which will bring new life to the land with wild plants and seasonal flowers following the rains. Experts also advise caution during this time regarding sudden temperature changes, which can contribute to the spread of colds and seasonal flu due to abruptly switching to lighter clothing before temperatures have fully stabilized.
The impact of weather on social activities
Winter in Saudi Arabia is considered the peak season for desert trips and camping, with citizens and residents alike venturing out to enjoy the atmosphere in the desert and parks. As the season draws to a close and temperatures gradually rise, people begin adjusting their outdoor activities to suit the mild spring weather before the arrival of summer. The current noticeable increase in temperatures indicates that the transition to warmer weather has already begun, promising a pleasant spring season.
