Is April a good time to visit Saudi Arabia?

April is manageable but heating up. Early April is still comfortable; by late April, midday temperatures in Riyadh reach 32–35°C. April can fall during Ramadan (the Islamic calendar is lunar — dates shift each year). If April overlaps with Ramadan, expect restricted restaurant hours during daylight and a distinctive atmosphere in the cities.

What happens in Saudi Arabia during Ramadan?

During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. Restaurants are typically closed during daylight hours or operate with covered windows. Non-Muslims are expected to refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours. After iftar (the fast-breaking meal at sunset), the cities come alive with socialising, shopping, and food. Many Saudis consider Ramadan the best time to experience local culture.

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan — a 3-day public holiday celebrated with family gatherings, food, and gifts. If your visit overlaps with Eid, expect major attractions and transport to be busy. Many businesses close for 3–7 days around Eid. The festive atmosphere is genuinely joyful.

When does Ramadan fall in 2026?

Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin around mid-February and end around mid-March 2026, meaning Eid al-Fitr would fall in mid-March. Exact dates depend on the lunar calendar and are confirmed when the crescent moon is sighted. Check a current Islamic calendar for the most accurate dates.

Visiting Saudi Arabia in April

18 March 2026 · 2 min read Practical

April in Saudi Arabia is a transitional month — the comfortable winter season is ending, and summer heat is establishing itself. It is still a feasible time to visit, particularly in the first half of the month and in elevated areas like Abha.

Weather in April

Riyadh: Rises from 28°C to 34°C through the month. Mornings and evenings remain pleasant; midday heat is significant by late April.

Jeddah: 30–33°C with higher humidity than Riyadh. The Red Sea is warm and swimming conditions are good.

AlUla: Temperatures reach 30–35°C. Outdoor heritage site visits should be planned for early morning.

Abha: The most pleasant option in April — 24–27°C days with mild evenings. The Asir mountains provide relief from lowland heat.

Taif: Rose season may extend into early April — check current bloom dates. Temperatures are mild at 26°C.

Ramadan Considerations

Ramadan typically falls in the February–March window in 2026, which may mean April falls after Ramadan. However, the Islamic calendar shifts approximately 11 days earlier each year — verify the actual dates for the year of your travel. If Ramadan falls partly in April:

Restaurants close during fasting hours; many reopen for iftar
Expect a quieter daytime atmosphere and a lively evening one
Modest dress and behaviour (no public eating/drinking) are even more important
Alcohol restrictions are total even in private settings

Eid al-Fitr (end of Ramadan) is a major holiday — if it falls in April, book transport and accommodation early, and expect crowds at airports and tourist sites.

Planning Notes

April is the first month when Riyadh and Jeddah feel genuinely hot to visitors not accustomed to the climate. Plan activities for before 10am and after 4pm. Book tours and activities through our Saudi Arabia page and check the first-time visitor guide for full preparation tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is April a good time to visit Saudi Arabia?: April is manageable but heating up. Early April is still comfortable; by late April, midday temperatures in Riyadh reach 32–35°C. April can fall during Ramadan (the Islamic calendar is lunar — dates shift each year). If April overlaps with Ramadan, expect restricted restaurant hours during daylight and a distinctive atmosphere in the cities.
What happens in Saudi Arabia during Ramadan?: During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. Restaurants are typically closed during daylight hours or operate with covered windows. Non-Muslims are expected to refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours. After iftar (the fast-breaking meal at sunset), the cities come alive with socialising, shopping, and food. Many Saudis consider Ramadan the best time to experience local culture.
What is Eid al-Fitr?: Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan — a 3-day public holiday celebrated with family gatherings, food, and gifts. If your visit overlaps with Eid, expect major attractions and transport to be busy. Many businesses close for 3–7 days around Eid. The festive atmosphere is genuinely joyful.
When does Ramadan fall in 2026?: Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin around mid-February and end around mid-March 2026, meaning Eid al-Fitr would fall in mid-March. Exact dates depend on the lunar calendar and are confirmed when the crescent moon is sighted. Check a current Islamic calendar for the most accurate dates.