Qatar is known for its rich cultural history, arid desert terrain, and captivating shores lined with dunes and beaches. Bordered by the Persian Gulf on three of its four sides, this country enjoys the balmy climate of the Middle East. Its capital city, Doha, stands out for its sleek, modern architecture, inspired by ancient Islamic arts. Read on to learn what the best month to visit Qatar is.
Best time to Travel to Qatar
Qatar is flooded with sunshine year-round, with daytime temperatures rarely dropping below 18°C. Rainfall is scarce in Qatar, as it receives less than 100 mm of precipitation per year. The most popular time to visit Qatar is from mid-October to mid-March. This time of year has a lovely spring climate with temperatures ranging from about 20 to 28°C. Most of the year is extremely hot with little to no precipitation. July is the hottest month in Qatar, with average temperatures resting at an astonishing 37°C.
Qatar in January
Qatar’s coolest weather is in January, with clear skies and average temperatures averaging a comfortable 18°C. However, it is possible to experience a few colder days in January. If you are visiting Qatar during this time, you will want to bring a light jacket as late afternoon and nighttime temperatures can sometimes fall below 15°C. January is the perfect time to visit the Pearl, a large artificial island off the coast of Qatar.
- Average Temperature: 18.3°C
- Average Rainfall: 13 mm
Qatar in February
February in Qatar is similar to January, with slightly warmer temperatures and a little more precipitation. Clear skies and comfortable warm temperatures make February a great month to explore the Mangroves of Al Thakira, a beautiful area with lush greenery and bodies of water on display. The Mangroves are a must-see; the ecosystem is unique to Qatar’s otherwise scorching desert climate. Here, you can find beautiful migrating birds such as herons and flamingos. Whether you rent a kayak or prefer to wade through the clear waters, it’s easy to forget you’re in the desert during a day trip to the Mangroves.
- Average Temperature: 19.9°C
- Average Rainfall: 17 mm
Qatar in March
In March, Qatar’s temperatures begin to rise. However, the precipitation stays the same as it was in February. Explore Doha’s standing market, Souq Waqif, rebuilt according to Qatar’s history as a prosperous trading center along the sea. Enjoy browsing through various fabrics, spices, artisan goods, and plenty more.
- Average Temperature: 23.6°C
- Average Rainfall: 16 mm
Qatar in April
In April, the temperatures in Qatar begin to rise rapidly while the rainy season comes to a close. After the sun cools off in the late afternoon, you can enjoy the gorgeous scenery with a walk along the Doha Corniche. This path stretches over 7 kilometers through the shores of the Persian Gulf and leads you from the Sheraton all the way to the Museum of Islamic Art.
- Average Temperature: 28.4°C
- Average Rainfall: 9 mm
Qatar in May
May sends the temperature soaring in Qatar while precipitation continues to go down. This is a great time to check out one of Qatar’s many restaurants for some delicious Syrian and Lebanese cuisine.
- Average Temperature: 33.8°C
- Average Rainfall: 4 mm
Qatar in June
In June, the temperatures continue to rise, and the rain comes to a complete halt. This month is the official start of the dry season in Qatar’s desert climate. Luckily, there are plenty of indoor activities to keep you entertained regardless of the weather. Check out some of Qatar’s exquisite museums, such as the Museum of Islamic Art. This museum was specifically constructed to appear as if it is floating on the body of water that surrounds it. Its exhibits feature textiles and artisan goods dating back to the 7th century.
- Average Temperature: 36.1°C
- Average Rainfall: 0 mm
Qatar in July
Qatar’s climate is the same in July as it is in June. With temperatures that can soar up to 46.1°C in the shade, this is the least popular time to visit Qatar. However, hotel rates are slightly cheaper. If you’re looking for an indoor activity to keep you cool, check out Qatar’s shopping malls. The beautiful Villaggio Mall, inspired by the architecture of Venice, Italy, features over 200 unique stores. If you love shopping and entertainment, check out Doha Festival City, the biggest mall in Qatar. It features a movie theater, a theme park, and tons of well-known fashion brands.
- Average Temperature: 37.1°C
- Average Rainfall: 0 mm
Qatar in August
Because of the harsh sun and desert climate, August is one of the quietest months for Qatari tourism. You can still enjoy the slight discount on hotel rates, but you will have to be willing to withstand all-day sun and temperatures rising to 42°C. You can always enjoy an air-conditioned, delicious brunch in one of Qatar’s many luxury restaurants.
- Average Temperature: 36.5°C
- Average Rainfall: 0 mm
Qatar in September
In September, you will experience slightly milder temperatures, with the highs settling below 40°C, unlike the preceding months. This would be a great time to explore Qatar’s abandoned city, Zubarah. These ancient ruins are freshly restored and date all the way back to the 1700s.
- Average Temperature: 34.2°C
- Average Rainfall: 0 mm
Qatar in October
By October, the temperature in Qatar is steadily falling to more comfortable numbers. However, rain is also lacking. This is an excellent time of the year to attend Qatar’s popular horse races or even a sporting event in Doha’s Khalifa International Stadium.
- Average Temperature: 31°C
- Average Rainfall: 1 mm
Qatar in November
November welcomes a milder climate, with average temperatures dropping about 5 degrees from October. It is also likely that this month will see some rain, marking an end to the dry season in Qatar’s desert climate.
- Average Temperature: 25.8°C
- Average Rainfall: 3 mm
Qatar in December
Qatar closes out the year with another 5-degree drop and a significant increase in precipitation. Ending the year with some of its most comfortable weather, December is one of the most desirable months to visit Qatar. You can spend time exploring the dunes or admiring one of its many outdoor art exhibits.
- Average Temperature: 20.7°C
- Average Rainfall: 12 mm
Conclusion
Qatar has a hot and airy desert climate with temperatures in the dry months reaching heights of up to 43°C. The good news is that Qatar doesn’t see huge crowds of tourists, so you will be able to enjoy ample pool and beach space no matter what time of the year you choose for your Qatar holiday.
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