Riyadh Weather in January
January in Riyadh brings pleasant temperatures, with daytime highs of 22°C (72°F) and nights around 9°C (48°F). Only 12 mm (0.5 in) of rainfall is typical, making it a largely dry month.
Rainfall in Riyadh in January
Based on our climate data of the past 30 years, about 3 days of rain are anticipated, with 12 mm (0.5 in) on average. The odd shower may pass through, but it usually doesn't amount to much. A largely dry month overall.
Temperature in Riyadh in January
January in Riyadh is generally excellent, with days reaching 22°C (72°F) and nights settling around 9°C (48°F). January is in the winter season. Conditions are often most pleasant around the middle of the day. With lows around 9°C (48°F), nights are cold. The upside is that cool, crisp nights are often the best for a deep sleep. Typically, this month presents some of the milder temperatures of the year, yet it remains pleasantly warm.
Sunshine in Riyadh in January
With approximately 217 hours of sunshine, the days are filled with clear skies. It makes it a perfect month for being outside.
Wind Speed in Riyadh in January
January has wind speeds averaging 4 m/s (8 knots). You can expect comfortable light winds that steadily move flags and feel mild throughout the day. Since this is an average, daily conditions vary from gentle winds to more active breezes.If your ideal day consists of dry skies and pleasant temperatures, January, February, March, November and December typically offer the best circumstances for Riyadh.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Saudi Arabia, check out our Riyadh's climate page.
Riyadh Temperature in January
Min Temperature
9°C (48°F)
Max Temperature
22°C (72°F)
Chance of Rain
11%
Precipitation
12 mm (0.5 in)
Rainy days
3 days
Humidity
50%
Windspeed
4 m/s (8 knots)
Sunshine
217 hours
Percentage Sunshine
63%
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Riyadh typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 22°C (72°F). Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 8°C (46°F) to 10°C (50°F).
Average temperatures in January
Historical weather for Riyadh in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Riyadh spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Riyadh historical weather extremes in January
Based on weather observations in Riyadh between 1977 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes during January.
- Riyadh recorded its highest January temperature of 33°C (91°F) on January 30, 2015.
- The coldest January day was on January 13, 2008, with a maximum of 7°C (45°F).
- Riyadh registered its coldest January night on January 17, 2008, with temperatures dropping to -2°C (28°F).
Best Places in Saudi Arabia in January
Find out more about the weather in Saudi Arabia and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Saudi Arabia in January →
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What to Wear in Riyadh in January
For Riyadh in January, you'll want flexible clothing. It's wise to pack cotton shirts, comfortable shorts, and a pair of jeans for cooler evenings. A light sweater or jacket is useful for air-conditioned spaces (like buses) or unexpected cool moments. Almost no rain is expected, so no need to bring rain gear. Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. These are all good ideas with this much sunshine.What To Do in Riyadh in January
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Saudi Arabia, check out our Riyadh's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed
See the full Riyadh climate overview or explore weather in Saudi Arabia.
