It’s easy to imagine that the Gulf nations are always hot and unbearable, but we’ll let you in on a little secret – that’s not the case in Qatar! While the summer months may be a bit too hot to handle, Qatar’s weather is surprisingly pleasant throughout the rest of the year. Rainy days are rare, and the temperatures are just right for exploring this captivating corner of the world.
Additionally, the climate creates the perfect conditions for enjoying an amazing beach holiday under the warm sun, with inviting water temperatures that make swimming and water activities truly enjoyable.
If you’re visiting Qatar from a country with milder weather, you probably have a few questions about the weather in Qatar – like when the best time to visit Qatar is, and what type of weather you can expect each month. We’ve got your back! In this ultimate guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about Qatar’s weather and temperatures to help you can plan your perfect trip.
Qatar Climate: What Are the Different Seasons in Qatar?
Qatar’s weather has four distinct seasons, each of which provides different weather conditions and a whole host of unique seasonal experiences for travellers.
Spring in Qatar lasts from March to May and offers a warm, dry climate that is perfect for checking out Qatar’s world-class outdoor attractions and breathtaking desert scenery! Average temperatures range from 22°C to 33°C (72°F to 91°F.).
The summer season, from June to September, is the hottest time of year, almost unbearably so, with temperatures averaging a fiery 37°C (99°F) in July. Accommodation prices tend to be lower during this time, and there are still plenty of fun things to see and do indoors in Doha. You’ll be able to escape the high temperatures with relative ease.
The autumn season typically begins in October and lasts until November. During this time, the country breathes a sigh of relief as average temperatures gradually decrease from 34°C (93.8°F) in September to 26°C (78°F) in November. It’s still hot, that’s for sure, but by the autumn it’s possible to explore outdoor attractions without overheating!
Finally, the winter season, between November and February, brings cooler average temperatures between 18°C and 26°C (64°F and 79°F), making it the busiest time of year for tourism! With minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures, winter is the perfect time to visit Qatar if you want to do and see it all.
What Are Qatar’s Low and High Seasons?
Qatar’s high season (peak season)
Qatar’s high season runs from November to March, when temperatures range between 23°C and 30°C (73°F to 85°F) during the day and 15°C to 20°C (58°F to 68°F) at night. This is the perfect time to do sightseeing and outdoor activities because the weather is so comfortable and pleasant. In November it’s generally still warm enough to take a dip in the pool or the sea, but from December to February, you’ll have to be brave if you want to have a swim!
As a country with such extreme weather, it makes sense that Qatar’s tourism seasons revolve around the weather. The peak tourism season obviously takes place during this cooler period. Don’t forget that Ramadan takes place in this period, and daytime Qatar during Ramadan can become a bit of a ghost town! Ramadan usually begins in March, but will shift to February in 2026.
Qatar’s low season
Qatar’s low season falls during the summer months, from June to September, when temperatures can soar above 40°C (100°F) during the day. This makes outdoor activities and sightseeing difficult, to say the least. The winds ease, and the humidity climbs, making the environment even more challenging.
Save to Pinterest Qataris have been dealing with these hot periods for centuries by now, so they have perfected the art of keeping cool whilst having fun. Doha is filled with epic cafes, malls, restaurants and indoor attractions that’ll suit everybody – and have air-conditioning. Moreover, some outdoor areas in Souq Waqif, Galeries Lafayette, and Gharafa Park, even feature innovative air-conditioning systems, allowing visitors to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere without being overwhelmed by the heat. Plus, as we mentioned earlier, with lower tourist numbers come lower prices. You can snag some amazing hotel deals and discounts in Qatar in the low season! Imagine staying in a Deluxe Room at the ultra-luxurious Four Seasons hotel in Doha.
Well, in the low season, you’ll find that prices start at around QAR 1215 (USD 334) per night. When you consider that the same room costs a whopping QAR 2600 (USD 714) in the peak season, it’s a steal!
Qatar’s shoulder season
Shoulder season is the best time to travel for visitors who want it all – manageable weather, great deals on hotels, and fewer crowds than the peak season. The shoulder season falls between Qatar’s cool winter months and its super-hot summers, typically occurring in April, May and October. The heat is still manageable, and you can still do most tourist activities and attractions during the shoulder season – often at a cheaper price than peak season.
Qatar Weather Month-by-Month
So now that you know when the peak, low and shoulder seasons in Qatar are, let’s break it down even further.
If we look at the year as a whole, July is the hottest month in Qatar, with temperatures reaching 37°C! On the other hand, the coldest month is January, with an average low temperature of 12.8°C.
If you’re prone to frizzy hair you’ll want to avoid January and December, the months with the highest relative humidity. During this time, the humidity levels reach 71%, making the heat feel far stuffier. In contrast, the driest month of the year is June, with humidity levels hovering around 41%.
Now let’s take a look at what it’s like to visit Qatar month-by-month. We’ll cover the weather, but we’ll also cover any special seasonal activities and festivities going on so that you don’t miss anything.
Qatar weather in January
Weather statistics in January:
- Average temperatures: 18.5°C (65.3°F)
- Average precipitation: 13.2 mm (0.5 inches)
- Average rainy days: 1.7 days
Cool and comfortable are the best words to describe the January weather in Qatar. After all, it’s one of the coolest months of the year in Qatar, with average daytime temperatures hovering around 18.5°C (65°F) – perfect sightseeing weather! While clear skies are the norm, don’t forget to pack a sweater – it’s possible you’ll experience a few chilly days during the month.
What to do in Qatar in January
January in Qatar is a time to explore the country’s stunning outdoor attractions – without sweating! Visit the famous Katara Beach for a swim or take a stroll along Doha’s picturesque Corniche to take advantage of the cooler temperatures.
Feeling adventurous? Just head out to the desert. Sail across the golden sand dunes while riding on a camel, go dune bashing in a 4×4, or watch a camel race at the Arabian Camel Festival which preserves the rich camel-riding tradition of Qatar.
Another exciting event to attend is the Qatar Balloon Festival which takes place in the Old Doha Port. Watch as colorful hot air balloons from around the world fill the sky, creating a spectacular display.
Held across various cities in Qatar, the Marmi Festival is an event dedicated to the art of falconry and hunting, and it runs for the entire month. This is a fabulous opportunity for local falcon enthusiasts to showcase their birds of prey, and for you to witness this revered Qatari tradition.
Qatar weather in February
Weather statistics in February:
- Average temperatures: 19.7°C (67.4°F)
- Average precipitation: 17.1 mm (0.6 inches)
- Average rainy days: 2.1 days
Be prepared for the rainy season in February, as it is the wettest month of the year! Of course, with the month’s rainfall amounting to just 17.1mm, even Qatar’s “rainy” month is still far drier than many other countries.
What to do in Qatar in February
February is another wonderful month in Qatar’s peak tourism season. In Doha, February starts with a bang when the FIMNA World Championships comes to town. The world’s very best aquatic athletes flock to Qatar to compete in the pool, and you can snag yourself a poolside ticket to witness the action!
In February, the Middle East’s most luxurious jewellery exhibition, the Asjad Jewelry Exhibition, comes to town. Head here to marvel at some of the world’s most exquisite pieces of jewellery!
For kiteboarding enthusiasts, early February is the perfect time to witness the GKA Freestyle Kite World Cup at Fuwairit Kite Beach which usually takes place in the first few days of the month. The sporty theme continues throughout February because National Sport Day also takes place this month. As part of the celebrations, there’s a whole host of fun sports activities for tourists and locals to participate in. If you’re a sporty traveller, there’s no better time to visit Qatar.
Another highlight in February is the Commercial Bank CHI AL SHAQAB Presented by Longines, an international equestrian competition that attracts top riders and horses from around the world. The event showcases various equestrian disciplines, including show jumping, dressage, and para-dressage.
Tennis fans can also look forward to the Qatar ExxonMobil Open, an annual ATP Tour event that draws some of the world’s best tennis players like Novak Djokovic, Gaél Monfils or Danill Medvedev. This prestigious tournament offers an exciting opportunity for spectators to watch thrilling matches and cheer on their favorite players.
In a nutshell, if you’re a sporty traveller, there’s no better time to visit Qatar than in February, as the month is packed with events and activities for sports enthusiasts.
Qatar weather in March
Weather statistics in March:
- Average temperatures: 22.9°C (73.2°F)
- Average precipitation: 16.1 mm (0.6 inches)
- Average rainy days: 1.8 days
In March, the spring season begins to bloom in Qatar, and, with that, temperatures start to rise! Although the amount of rain will remain similar to February, the humidity begins to climb, making it feel warmer than it actually is.
What to do in Qatar in March
March in Qatar is a month of natural wonders and cultural experiences. It’s another great month, weather-wise, so you have countless things to choose from to keep yourself entertained.
For history fans, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Al Zubarah Archaeological Site is a must-visit. Located about 100 kilometres northwest of Doha, the site offers a glimpse into Qatar’s fascinating past, with its well-preserved remains of a once-thriving pearling and trading town. It’s the perfect way to escape the incredibly modern city and get a glimpse into the more traditional Qatar.
If you’re a foodie the Qatar International Food Festival is bound to get your tastebuds dancing! Held in a lively outdoor setting, this festival brings a mouth-watering array of local and international cuisines to Qatar, so you can sample the world’s best dishes without needing to leave Doha.
Equestrian enthusiasts will be thrilled to attend the Longines Global Champions Tour, which takes place in March as well. This world-class showjumping event brings together the top riders and horses from around the globe, competing for prestigious titles and substantial prize money.
Qatar weather in April
Weather statistics in April:
- Average temperatures: 27.9°C (82.3°F)
- Average precipitation: 8.7 mm (0.3 inches)
- Average rainy days: 1.4 days
April sees a rapid increase in temperatures in Qatar. With an average temperature of 27.9°C, the month is one of the first hot months of the year.
What to do in Qatar in April
April in Qatar marks the end of the cool season and the beginning of the hot and humid summer season. Despite the warmer temperatures, it’s a great time to explore Qatar’s cultural treasures, and it’s not yet too hot to spend time outside.
April is usually when the holy month of Ramadan comes to an end, and the Eid al-Fitr celebration has the whole country joining together in celebration. It’s an exciting time to be in Qatar, as locals and visitors come together to enjoy festive gatherings, delicious feasts, and colourful displays of lights and decorations.Finally, April marks the beginning of the Whale Sharks season, when you’ll be able to see these magnificent creatures off the North East coast of Qatar until September. We bet you didn’t expect to see sharks in Qatar!
Qatar weather in May
Weather statistics in May:
- Average temperatures: 33.4°C (92.2°F)
- Average precipitation: 3.6 mm (0.1 inches)
- Average rainy days: 0.2 days
While May is not the hottest month of the year in Qatar, temperatures definitely start to soar, averaging around 33°C (92°F). Rainfall continues to decrease as the country heads towards the summer season.
What to do in Qatar in May
May is the last month of spring in Qatar and probably your very last chance to enjoy outdoor activities during the day. We recommend heading to the Katara Cultural Village, which offers a unique insight into Qatar’s culture and history through art exhibitions, music, and dance performances.
In the evening, there’s no better way to enjoy a sunset than at the Pearl, a man-made island with luxurious shops and restaurants.
Sit back and enjoy the cooler breeze and stunning views of the sea as the sun sinks behind the horizon. It’s a hard life, but somebody has to do it!
Qatar weather in June
Weather statistics in June:
- Average temperatures: 36.1°C (97°F)
- Average precipitation: 0 mm (0 inch)
- Average rainy days: 0 day
June in Qatar marks the start of the dry season with a complete end to the rain, with cool breezes and manageable temperatures! In June, expect an average temperature over 36°C (97°F) – it’s intense, to say the least!
What to do in Qatar in June
Qatar in June will feel hotter than the surface of the sun, so it’s time to do as the locals do and head to the country’s many indoor attractions. The Museum of Islamic Art is a must-visit, showcasing a mind-blowing collection of Islamic art and artifacts from around the world.
While the streets of Doha empty out during the day due to the heat, they come alive at night, especially at the bustling Souq Waqif market, filled with locals and tourists enjoying the lively atmosphere.
For a unique experience, head to Fuwairit Beach to witness the hatching of the adorable Hawksbill turtles! While the main hatching area is closed to protect the nests, Qatar Museums typically runs family-friendly hatching encounters each season – keep your eyes peeled for dates! Football fans won’t want to miss the start of the AFC Asian Cup, a famous football tournament that starts in mid-June.
Qatar weather in July
Weather statistics in July:
- Average temperatures: 37°C (98.6°F)
- Average precipitation: 0 mm (0 inch)
- Average rainy days: 0 day
July is the month with the highest average temperature in Qatar, reaching a whopping 37°C (98.6°F). It’s hot and it’s dry. So it may be challenging to spend extended periods outdoors, but shorter intervals can still be enjoyable. Seek comfort in Qatar’s air-conditioned malls and museums during the day – it’s the only way to stay cool.
What to do in Qatar in July
To escape the July heat, check out the magnificent Place Vendôme Mall in Lusail. Boasting high-end stores and world-class restaurants, a luxury cinema, and even an indoor amusement park, you can easily spend an entire day here escaping the heat.
If you fancy learning a thing or two whilst staying cool, the National Museum of Qatar in Doha is a must-visit. There’s no doubt about it – this will be one of the most unique architectures you’ll ever see! It’s a masterpiece when it comes to architectural design, that’s for sure. It gets even better once you head inside, because the museum is filled to the brim with interactive exhibits telling the tale of Qatar’s rich and captivating history.
Qatar weather in August
Weather statistics in August:
- Average temperatures: 36.4°C (97.6°F)
- Average precipitation: 0 mm (0 inch)
- Average rainy days: 0 day
With the harsh sun and desert climate, August is one of the quietest months for tourism in Qatar. You’ll be able to find some amazing hotel deals, but the trade-off is that you’ll have to endure relentless sun and temperatures that can rise to 42°C (108°F).
What to do in Qatar in August
In August, beat the heat by heading to one of the country’s many indoor theme parks, which are bound to add some thrill and excitement to your day! Doha Quest, Qatar’s first indoor theme park, is popular for both adults and kids, while Angry Birds World offers another fun option. Finally, OliOli, a play museum located inside a gift box-shaped building in Katara Cultural Village, will stimulate your kids’ imagination and creativity with its 45 interactive exhibits.
Many of the suggestions for things to do in Qatar in July apply to August too, so make the most of your time in the country by visiting its many malls and museums!
Qatar weather in September
Weather statistics in September:
- Average temperatures: 34.3°C (93.8°F)
- Average precipitation: 0 mm (0 inch)
- Average rainy days: 0 days
September in Qatar brings some relief (finally!) from the sweltering summer heat. Although temperatures still average around 34ºC (94ºF), the highs are finally settling below 40°C, making it a more comfortable time – by Qatar standards – to explore the city. The locals return to the city’s streets and outdoor attractions like they’re emerging from hibernation, and you’ll want to join them!
What to do in Qatar in September
September in Qatar is all about awesome Qatari cultural events and exhibitions. Immerse yourself in Qatar’s rich art scene with a visit to the Fire Station Artist in Residence, an art hub that features thought-provoking works from local and international artists.
Another arty option is the Mathaf Arab Museum of Modern Art, which showcases contemporary art from every corner of the Arab world.
In September, you can also attend the S’hail – Katara International Hunting and Falconry Exhibition. This event celebrates the region’s deep-rooted hunting and falconry traditions, with exhibits showcasing the finest falconry and hunting equipment, along with expert falconers and hunting enthusiasts from around the world. It’s a unique opportunity to learn about these ancient practices and their importance in Qatari culture.
Qatar weather in October
Weather statistics in October:
- Average temperatures: 30.9 (87.6°F)
- Average precipitation: 1.1 mm (0 inches)
- Average rainy days: 0.1 days
As October approaches, the temperature in Qatar gradually becomes more pleasant, and the country’s citizens collectively breathe a sigh of welcome relief. The summer is finally over!
What to do in Qatar in October
October in Qatar offers many exciting events and activities for tourists. Why not attend the annual Qatar International Art Festival, featuring works of both local and international artists, or enjoy water sports like kayaking, scuba-diving and jet-skiing at one of Qatar’s many beautiful beaches? Al Ghariya beach is a firm favourite, but you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to gorgeous beaches in Qatar.
October sees hordes of Formula 1 fans flock to the country as the Qatar Grand Prix kicks off. Held at the Lusail International Circuit, this is one of the most luxurious and exciting events in Qatar’s calendar, and hotel prices soar as a result. Book as far in advance as possible!
Additionally, the Geneva International Motor Show Qatar brings the world’s top automotive brands to Doha, showcasing the latest models, innovations, and cutting-edge technology in the industry. Car enthusiasts won’t want to miss this opportunity to see the best of the automotive world all in one place, from luxury vehicles and high-performance sports cars to eco-friendly models and concept cars.
Finally, the month of October also features the Horticultural Doha Expo, where you can check out some world-class displays of plants and flowers. If you have a green thumb, plan your trip to Qatar in October!
Qatar weather in November
Weather statistics in November:
- Average temperatures: 25.6°C (78.1°F)
- Average precipitation: 3.3 mm (0.1 inches)
- Average rainy days: 0.2 days
The temperatures in Qatar decrease even further in November, dropping by approximately 5 degrees compared to October. This month also marks the end of the dry season in Qatar’s desert climate. You may even experience some rain!
What to do in Qatar in November
November is one of the best times to enjoy Qatar’s milder weather and head out into the great outdoors. The country’s beautiful beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing. It’s also finally cool enough for desert tours to start back up again, so why not head out on a desert safari or dune buggy tour to take in the country’s best bits?
For a unique taste of Qatari tradition, don’t miss the Katara Traditional Dhow Festival, which usually begins towards the end of November. It’s an unforgettable and lively celebration of Qatar’s rich maritime heritage through traditional dhow boat races, music, and food.
Qatar weather in December
Weather statistics in December:
- Average temperatures: 20.8°C (69.5°F)
- Average precipitation: 12.1 mm (0.5 inches)
- Average rainy days: 1.3 days
As the year ends, Qatar experiences another notable 5-degree drop in temperature and a significant rise in rainfall. This results in some of the most comfortable weather of the year.
What to do in Qatar in December
In December, don’t miss out on the celebrations for Qatar National Day, a festive event that showcases the country’s deeply-rooted cultural heritage with colourful parades and fireworks displays.
Another event not to be missed is the Lusail Winter Wonderland, which runs from mid-November to April and offers a festive atmosphere with ice skating, snow play, and carnival rides. Want a break from all the festivities? No worries – the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Car Museum is a must-visit for car enthusiasts. With 300 unique cars on display, visitors can explore the history of the automobile from the 1900s onwards.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Qatar?
For most people, there’s no doubt about it – the best time to visit Qatar is between November and March. The weather at this time of year is nothing short of delightful, with average temperatures ranging from about 18°C to 26°C (65 °F to 78°F). When it comes to taking advantage of the many outdoor activities this country has to offer, this is the best time to visit!
The summer months from May to October have much higher temperatures, so if you’re planning to visit at this time of year, indoor activities are going to be your best friend.
Frequently Asked Questions
How cold does it get in Qatar?
The coldest month in Qatar is January, with temperatures dropping as low as 10°C(50°F) at night. We bet you didn’t expect to find cold temperatures like that in Qatar!
Temperatures at night can drop to as low as 10°C (50°F) during the entire winter season, which runs from November to March, although the average low temperature is slightly higher, at around 15°C (59°F). On extremely cold nights it’s possible that the temperature can drop as low as 5°C (41°F) at night – but that’s definitely not something that happens every day!
As you can imagine, it’s quite rare for it to snow in Qatar. It has a desert climate, after all! With that said, snow isn’t completely off the table. It has been known to snow in the northern part of Qatar on rare occasions, although it doesn’t snow enough to make a snowman, and the snow will melt quickly!
What is the hottest month in Qatar?
Qatar reaches its peak temperature in July when the only way to describe the temperature is hot, hot, hot! Average highs hover around 42°C (108°F), sometimes rising to a sizzling 50°C (122°F)! If you’re visiting Qatar during the summer months, don’t forget to check both the actual temperature and the heat index. That’s because the increased humidity can make August feel even hotter!
Is Qatar the hottest country in the world? Definitely not. While the hottest temperature ever recorded in Qatar was a blistering 50.4°C (122.7°F) in July 2010, that’s not the highest ever recorded temperature in the world. That record goes to Death Valley, California which registered an astonishing 130°F (54.4°C) in July 2021.
Does it ever rain in Qatar?
The perhaps surprising answer is yes – it does rain in Qatar. The country receives an average precipitation of about 80 mm (3.1 inches) per year, with most of the rain falling in the cooler winter months.
Since rain is not a common occurrence in Qatar, it can take you by surprise. It’s probably not worth packing your umbrella “just in case”, but if it does rain, head indoors and ride it out. Downpours are usually short but it’s best to stay inside with a coffee or tea and relax until the rain calms down.
Is Qatar very humid?
Qatar is generally a dry country, with low humidity levels throughout the year. January and December are the months with the highest relative humidity, reaching up to 71%, while the driest month is June, with only 41% humidity. Even during the country’s most humid periods, the humidity levels are still relatively low compared to many other “warm” countries. It goes without saying that if you’re visiting Qatar in summer you need to stay hydrated and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day to avoid dehydration and heat exhaustion.
Does Qatar get dust storms?
If you’re not from a desert climate, chances are you’ve never even heard of dust storms. They’re no joke, though! Qatar, including Doha, does experience dust storms. These usually take place during the summer months when strong winds blow over the arid desert landscape, picking up dust and sand particles and causing low visibility.
During a dust storm, take precautions such as staying indoors or wearing a mask to avoid inhaling the dust, staying updated on weather reports, and avoiding driving.
With that said, don’t let this discourage you from visiting Qatar, as dust storms are not a regular occurrence, and there are plenty of indoor attractions and activities to enjoy.
How is the sea temperature in Qatar during summer?
Get ready to dive into the crystal-clear waters of Qatar! The sea temperature in this coastal paradise varies throughout the year, but for the warmest sea temperatures, head to Qatar between June and September. During these summer months, the sea temperature averages a very warm 30°C (86°F).
The winter months from December to February are a different story, with sea temperatures dropping to around 20°C (68°F). Thanks to Qatar’s warm temperatures, swimming in the sea in Qatar is possible year-round (although it’ll be particularly cold in the winter), but it’s most enjoyable (and refreshing!) during the warmer months.
When is Ramadan in Qatar and how does it affect tourists?
Ramadan is a significant event in Qatar and runs for around a month, with the start and end dates subject to lunar sightings. In 2023, Ramadan began on March 22 and will end on April 21. Future Ramadan dates for 2024 and 2025 are March 13 to April 12 and March 3 to April 2, respectively.
If you’re visiting Qatar during this time, you should observe the traditional customs of Ramadan, including fasting, dressing modestly, and avoiding public displays of affection.
One of the biggest impacts of Ramadan that you’ll need to be prepared for is that some businesses and attractions in Doha close during the day and only open in the evening. However, many tourist attractions do cater to tourists by keeping their normal opening hours during Ramadan.
Don’t let these changes deter you! Ramadan is a fascinating time to visit Qatar, with tons of unique experiences on offer. As darkness falls during Ramadan, the city of Doha comes to life! Take this opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture by joining the traditional Iftar, where you’ll experience the joy of breaking the fast with the locals. Get ready to see a side of Qatar that few tourists see!
