Weather in Salalah

Planning your day in Salalah? Check out the current weather information, forecasts, and helpful charts below to ensure your trip goes perfectly.

The climate in Salalah can be described as tropical desert, characterized by hot and predominantly dry weather throughout the year. The city boasts an abundance of sunshine and consistently high temperatures. Even in the coolest months, such as January and December, the average temperature stays at a comfortable level of around 20–21°C, while in peak months, like May, it can reach 32°C and above.

Salalah does not have sharp seasonal changes in the traditional sense, but two main periods can be distinguished. From October to May, there is a dry and hot season with minimal rainfall. However, the main feature of the local climate is the summer monsoon, known as the "Khareef", which usually occurs in July and August. At this time, unlike the rest of the Arabian Peninsula, temperatures in Salalah drop slightly, while light drizzle and thick fog bring coolness and humidity, transforming the scorched landscapes into green oases.

Overall, travelers should expect very warm and sunny weather in Salalah. Rain here is a rarity, and even during the "Khareef" season, precipitation most often takes the form of a light mist rather than torrential downpours. The best time to visit depends on personal preferences: whether you want to enjoy classic dry heat and sun during the winter months or witness the unique phenomenon of a blooming desert during the summer monsoon.

The climate in Salalah is distinguished by year-round warmth, yet temperature patterns have their own unique seasonal features. The hottest months are May and June, when the average temperature settles at around 28°C, and daily highs regularly exceed 32°C. This is a period of dry and sultry pre-monsoon calm. In contrast, the coolest month is considered to be January, when the average temperature is a comfortable 19.8°C, making winter in Salalah incredibly mild and pleasant.

The winter season, covering the period from December to February, offers ideal conditions for a holiday. During the day, the air warms up to 24-26°C, while nights remain warm, with temperatures rarely dropping below 15°C. The summer months present a climatic surprise: after the peak heat in May, temperatures noticeably drop in July and August. This is due to the arrival of the seasonal Khareef monsoon, which brings cloud cover and refreshing drizzle. As a result, the average temperature decreases to 25°C, and daytime heat softens to 28°C, creating a unique cool and humid atmosphere in the height of summer.

Daily temperature fluctuations in Salalah are moderate. For most of the year, the difference between day and night readings is approximately 9-10°C, ensuring pleasant freshness after sunset. However, during the monsoon season in July and August, this difference shrinks to 5-6°C. Dense cloud cover during this period prevents the air from cooling down significantly at night and protects against the scorching sun during the day, maintaining a more stable temperature.

The climate in Salalah is characterized by extreme aridity, and rainfall is a rarity throughout the year. The city lacks a clearly defined rainy season, and the total annual precipitation is minimal, making the weather predictably dry for travelers.

The absolutely dry months, when the probability of rain is practically zero, are January, February, and December. During the spring and autumn months, such as March, April, September, and November, there may be on average no more than one day with precipitation, and the amount is insignificant.

A slight increase in humidity occurs in summer, associated with the local "Khareef" monsoon. The highest amount of rainfall occurs in May — about 3 mm. However, in terms of the frequency of rainy days, July stands out, with approximately 5 days of precipitation. It is worth noting that these are generally not torrential rains, but rather light drizzle or thick fog, bringing refreshing coolness during the hot season.

When planning a trip to Salalah, it is important to choose your wardrobe correctly to feel comfortable in any weather. Warm weather prevails here year-round, so the basis of your suitcase should be light and breathable clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Be sure to bring everything you need for sun protection: sunscreen with high SPF, quality sunglasses, and headwear, whether it be a hat or a cap. For walking around the city and visiting sights, comfortable footwear, such as sandals or light sneakers, is ideal.

Although the climate in Salalah is generally stable, there are slight seasonal nuances. In the winter months, from December to February, evenings can be a bit cool with temperatures around 15-16°C, so a light jacket, cardigan, or hoodie will be very handy. Summer, especially from May to June, is the hottest time, so choose maximally open and light-colored clothing. A special period is the "Khareef" rainy season (July-August), when the city is shrouded in cool fog and light drizzle. Despite the name, heavy downpours almost never happen here, but a light waterproof windbreaker or a small umbrella will help you stay dry while walking through the transformed green landscapes.

Don't forget to pack swimwear for relaxing on Salalah's beautiful beaches or by the hotel pool. It is also worth considering local cultural traditions: when visiting religious sites and public places, it is recommended to have clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, such as a light scarf or pareo. Such a thoughtful approach to packing will allow you to enjoy every moment of your journey through this amazing corner of Oman.