Understanding the Climate: Mecca, known for its hot desert climate, welcomes visitors year-round. However, temperatures peak from May through September, with highs often exceeding 40°C (104°F). If comfort is a priority, the ideal time to perform Sa'i between Safa and Marwa would be during the cooler months, spanning from November to February. During this period, daytime temperatures are considerably more pleasant, typically ranging between 18°C (64°F) and 30°C (86°F), making the ritual walking between these two hills within the Great Mosque of Mecca more manageable.
Considering the Hajj Pilgrimage: For those aiming to partake in Hajj, which includes the ritual of Sa'i, the time is predetermined based on the Islamic lunar calendar. Hajj occurs from the 8th to the 12th of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar. As Hajj dates shift each year against the Gregorian calendar, ensure to check the specific dates to plan your visit. Outside Hajj, the less crowded period, or the "off-season" for Umrah, falls right after Hajj and before Ramadan, as well as during the summer months when the heat is at its peak. Considering both the weather and the pilgrimage seasons, planning your visit during the low season for Umrah with milder weather can ensure a more comfortable and contemplative experience.
Month | Min Temp | Max Temp |
---|---|---|
January | 18 °c | 30 °c |
February | 19 °c | 31 °c |
March | 21 °c | 34 °c |
April | 24 °c | 38 °c |
May | 28 °c | 42 °c |
June | 30 °c | 44 °c |
July | 31 °c | 44 °c |
August | 31 °c | 44 °c |
September | 29 °c | 43 °c |
October | 26 °c | 40 °c |
November | 22 °c | 35 °c |
December | 19 °c | 31 °c |