Weather in Dhahran

Overview of Dhahran, Saudi Arabia

Dhahran, a city located in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, is a thriving epicenter of the globe's energy industry. Home to the world's leading oil company, Saudi Aramco, Dhahran is known for its innovative spirit, making significant contributions to the region's economic growth. But apart from its economic prowess, Dhahran's climate and weather patterns are also noteworthy, characterized by high temperatures, minimal rainfall, and vast desert landscapes.

Climate Description

Dhahran, like most parts of Saudi Arabia, has a hot desert climate (Köppen Climate Classification BWh). This classification is characterized by extremely hot summers, warm winters, and scanty rainfall throughout the year.

“The climate in Dhahran is generally hot and arid, with a high level of sunshine all year round.”

Temperature

Throughout the year, Dhahran experiences a broad range of temperatures. During the summer months, from June to September, temperatures often surpass 40°C (104°F), with July typically being the hottest month. On the other hand, winter months, from December to February, are comparatively mild, with average temperatures ranging between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F). The coolest month is usually January.

Table 1: Average Monthly Temperature in Dhahran (°C)

Month	Average High	Average Low
January	20	11
February	22	13
March	27	17
April	33	21
May	39	26
June	42	29
July	44	30
August	44	30
September	41	27
October	36	23
November	29	18
December	22	13

Precipitation

In terms of precipitation, Dhahran receives minimal rainfall, averaging about 83mm (3.3 inches) annually. The city experiences two short rainy seasons, one in April and the other in November, with November typically being the wettest month.

Chart 1: Average Monthly Rainfall in Dhahran (mm)

January     10
February    15
March       15
April       10
May         5
June        0
July        0
August      0
September   0
October     5
November    20
December    15

Humidity

The humidity in Dhahran varies throughout the year. The city experiences the highest level of humidity, averaging around 70%, during the winter months due to the cooler temperatures. Conversely, the summer months are less humid, averaging around 20-30%.

Wind

Dhahran experiences the "Shamal" winds, a northwesterly wind blowing over the city, especially during the summer months. These winds can create dust storms, which can reduce visibility and air quality.

Conclusion

With its hot desert climate, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, offers a unique environment characterized by high temperatures, low rainfall, and consistent sunshine. Despite the harsh climate, the city thrives, hosting a robust economy and a vibrant culture. Understanding Dhahran's climate is essential for anyone planning to visit or do business in the city, as it can significantly impact travel plans and daily activities.