Weather in Oman: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

Oman is a desert oasis, thus the climate is typically hot and humid. The weather conditions can have a range throughout the year from extremely hot to a bit cooler than many may expect for the Middle East. It generally has two seasons consisting of summer and winter.

The best time to visit Oman is between October through March due to cooler temperatures in the winter months. It is the perfect time to visit and enjoy a host of activities outdoors like hiking, swimming, and festivals in the winter season. In the summer temperatures can be pretty high, thus making it difficult for visitors to enjoy outdoor activities. There is little to no rainfall, hence not allowing for relief or cooldowns much during the summer months.

Fast Climate Facts:

• Hottest Month: June (105 F)
• Coldest Month: January (63 F)
• Wettest Month: February (1.2 in)
• Most Humid Month: August (80 percent)

Popular Cities in Oman

Nizwa

On average, the temperatures are generally high in Nizwa. The warmest month here is July with average temperatures around 109 F (43 C) and the coldest month is January with an average high temperature of 78 F (26 C). January is also the driest month in Nizwa. However, generally, most months are pretty dry throughout the year. April showers are common, with it being the wettest month averaging 0.59 inches (15 mm) of rain.

Muscat

As the capital city in Oman, Muscat also tends to have high temperatures year-round. Muscat has dry periods most months of the year excluding February, which is the wettest month of the year averaging 0.98 inches (25 mm). The coldest month is January with an average maximum temperature of 78 F (26 C). The warmest month is June with an average high temperature of 104 F (40 C). Nevertheless, the actual feel in the summer months is much higher due to the humidity in the city. September is the driest month and for sun lovers May is the best time to visit, with average sunlight hours around 13 hours per day.

Salalah

Many tourists and locals alike enjoy visiting Salalah during its Khareef or monsoon season rainy season in July and August. Average precipitation during this time ranges from 0.98 to 1.18 inches (25 to 30 mm), which is high for the desert climate in the region. The rain in these months have a big influence on the stunning green flora and fauna in this area which is a big draw for many visitors. The warmest month is May with an average high temperature around 90 F (32 C). The coldest month is January with an average high temperature of 80 F (27 C).

Sur

Sur which is known for its boating and fishery history generally has dry and relatively warm months throughout the year. The warmest month is July with an average high temperature of 109 F (43 C) and the coldest month is January with an average high temperature of 78 F (26 C). April is the wettest month with precipitation ranging of just over 0.59 inches (15 mm). January is the driest month so it's a great time to visit this coastal city.

Summer

Visitors to Oman during the summer months can expect extremely hot, long days. Unfortunately, there is little relief in the form of rain also during this time. June, which is the hottest month of the year, is the first month of summer and brings about blistering heat, with temperatures averaging around 105 F (41 C).

Most seek relief from the summer heat by enjoying indoor activities such as shopping at one of the many malls in Muscat and watching the cinema in a nice, cool air-conditioned building. Unfortunately, there aren’t many festivals hosted during the summer months due to the extreme heat. Certain popular tourist activities such as dune-bashing in the desert are also unavailable during this time due to the uncomfortably warm climate.

It is important to note that the summer season also brings about the Shamal winds. Thus, it can be a bit dusty days, peaking in the morning and calming down in the evenings. An occasional sandstorm or dust storm can occur during a summertime visit to Oman.

Additionally, during the summer months, if visiting the Dhofar region further to the south, travelers can experience the Southwest monsoon season. However, this rainy period between June to early September only occurs in this region of Oman.

What to Pack: In order to protect yourself from the scorching rays, sunscreen (and more sunscreen), is a must for a visit to Oman during the summer months.

Fall

While still a bit warm during the beginning of fall in September, the temperatures become more tolerable for most to enjoy. Mid to late fall between October and November can be one of the best times to visit Oman as temperatures began to decline. Humidity declines during this time also and people are able to enjoy a host of outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and dining by the glorious beaches throughout the country.

What to Pack: Since the fall months are extremely pleasant, at the most a visitor would need is a lightweight sweater or scarf if there is a wind chill in the evenings.

Winter

The winter months from December through March is the best time of year for visiting Oman due to moderate temperatures, yet beautiful sunny days. Westerly winds in the winter months can bring about modest rain showers during the winter months, which also contribute to the nice, cool days. The daytime temperature averages in the higher 70s F, perfect for basking in the sun during the day but in the low 60s in the evenings.

There are a host of events to enjoy during the winter months including celebrating Oman’s National Day in November and New Year’s Eve in the month of December at one of the many upscale hotels. Also, tourists can enjoy a range of outdoor activities including camping, hiking, or dune-bashing on a desert safari.

What to Pack: For the cooler evenings, consider packing a lightweight jacket or medium-weight sweater.

Spring

Spring runs from March to May when temperatures begin to rise back to warmer long, sunny days. The average high temperatures fluctuate between the mid-80s F to the low 100s F from March to May, thus being a perfect time to enjoy the gorgeous scenery that Oman offers.

From late spring, locals and tourists alike can enjoy additional outdoor activities including sailing on a traditional Omani Dhow boat in the Gulf. Ramadan also occurs in May now, so beware that many dining establishments will close in the afternoons and reopen at sunset for locals to break the fast.

What to Pack: Consider packing baseball caps and big, floppy hats for women to protect from sunburn, as well as a scarf to cover up if visiting during Ramadan.