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Weather Comparison

Riyadh vs Doha

Side-by-side weather comparison for January

Riyadh: 20°CDoha: 22°C493 km apart

January Weather: Riyadh vs Doha

MetricRiyadhDohaBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer20°C (68°F)22°C (72°F)Doha
Average LowHigher is milder7°C (45°F)14°C (57°F)Doha
Rain DaysFewer is drier2 days2 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier11 mm11 mmTie
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier9h/day9h/dayTie
HumidityLower is more comfortable78%70%Doha
UV IndexLower is safer22Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better19 km/h23 km/hRiyadh

Which City is Better in January?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Doha edges ahead as the better destination in January. Doha offers 9 hours of daily sunshine with only 2 rain days, while Riyadh sees 9 sunshine hours and 2 rain days.

Riyadh sits in the comfortable travel range at 20°C. Doha is also comfortable at 22°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in January.

Temperature Comparison in January

Riyadh reaches an average high of 20°C (68°F) and drops to 7°C (45°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 13°C, meaning significant temperature swings between day and night.

Doha averages 22°C (72°F) for the high and 14°C (57°F) for the low, with a daily range of 8°C. The 2°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in January.

Rainfall Comparison in January

Riyadh receives approximately 11 mm of rainfall across 2 rain days during January. Rain is rare this month, so dry conditions are likely.

Doha sees 11 mm over 2 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Humidity also differs: Riyadh averages 78% while Doha sits at 70%. Riyadh will feel muggier, especially at higher temperatures.

What to Pack: Riyadh vs Doha

Packing for Riyadh in January

Highs of 20°C, lows of 7°C, 2 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Packing for Doha in January

Highs of 22°C, lows of 14°C, 2 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen

Pack for both: light layers, a light jacket for evenings, sunscreen. These items are useful in either destination during January.

Year-Round Comparison: Riyadh vs Doha

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.January is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthRiyadhDoha
HighRainHighRain
Jan20°C2d22°C2d
Feb23°C1d23°C2d
Mar27°C2d27°C2d
Apr33°C3d32°C1d
May39°C1d38°C0d
Jun41°C0d40°C0d
Jul42°C0d41°C0d
Aug42°C0d41°C0d
Sep39°C0d39°C0d
Oct34°C0d35°C0d
Nov26°C2d29°C1d
Dec21°C2d24°C2d
20°

Riyadh Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

22°

Doha Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Riyadh warmer than Doha in January?
No. In January, Doha is warmer with an average high of 22°C (72°F) compared to Riyadh at 20°C (68°F), a difference of 2°C.
Which city gets more rain in January, Riyadh or Doha?
Both cities average 2 rain days in January with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit Riyadh or Doha in January?
It depends on your preferences. Riyadh averages 20°C and 9 hours of daily sunshine with 2 rain days. Doha averages 22°C with 9 sunshine hours and 2 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Doha. For fewer rain days, both are equal.
How far apart are Riyadh and Doha?
Riyadh and Doha are approximately 493 km (306 miles) apart. Riyadh is located in Saudi Arabia (Asia) while Doha is in Qatar (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Riyadh and Doha?
For Riyadh, June tends to be the best month with 12 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 41°C. For Doha, June is typically ideal with 13 sunshine hours and 40°C highs.

Compare Riyadh and Doha in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Riyadh coordinates: 24.71°N, 46.68°E | Doha coordinates: 25.29°N, 51.53°E