Saudi Arabia has 21 days remaining until the end of meteorological summer, which officially concludes on August 31, 2026.
Meteorological seasons divide the year into four three-month periods. In the Northern Hemisphere, meteorological summer runs from June 1 through August 31, followed by autumn on September 1. The Saudi National Center for Meteorology (NCM) similarly classifies June, July, and August as the Kingdom’s summer months.
However, the end of meteorological summer does not automatically signal an immediate drop in temperatures.
The NCM’s summer 2026 forecast projected above-average surface temperatures across all regions of Saudi Arabia, with July and August temperatures in some areas expected to average up to 1.6°C above normal.
Climate conditions also vary across the Kingdom. According to the NCM, typical summer maximum temperatures range between 35°C and 45°C, though conditions remain more moderate in parts of the southwestern highlands.
Meteorological seasons differ from astronomical seasons, which are based on the Earth’s position relative to the Sun. In Saudi Arabia, astronomical summer began with the solstice on June 21, 2026, and will end with the equinox at approximately 3:05 a.m. Saudi time on September 23.
Consequently, while only 21 days of meteorological summer remain as of August 10, astronomical summer will continue for several more weeks. Furthermore, the NCM expects above-normal temperatures to extend into autumn 2026, meaning the seasonal shift will not bring immediate cool weather.
FAQs
When does summer officially end in Saudi Arabia in 2026?
Meteorological summer officially ends on August 31, 2026. However, astronomical summer continues until the September equinox on September 23, 2026.
Will the weather instantly become cool after August 31 in Saudi Arabia?
No, temperatures do not drop immediately. The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) projects above-normal surface temperatures continuing across most regions through September and into early autumn.
What is the difference between meteorological summer and astronomical summer?
Meteorological summer is based on the annual temperature cycle and fixed calendar months (June 1 – August 31). Astronomical summer is based on Earth’s position relative to the sun (June 21 – September 23).
What are the typical summer temperatures across Saudi Arabia?
Maximum summer temperatures across most of the Kingdom generally range between 35°C and 45°C. However, southwestern highland regions like Abha and Asir experience much more moderate weather.
Which parts of Saudi Arabia stay cooler during the summer months?
The southwestern mountainous regions including Asir, Abha, and parts of Al-Baha offer significantly cooler and more pleasant temperatures compared to the central and eastern desert regions.
