The Best Time to Visit the Middle East

Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, moves about 11 days earlier each year because it follows the lunar calendar. Visiting during Ramadan can be memorable: evenings come alive with iftar meals and late-night gatherings, and hotels offer beautiful Ramadan tents. During the day, eat and drink discreetly in public, dress modestly, and expect shorter business hours. Hotels and resorts continue to serve guests.

The two Eid holidays are festive, busy times of family travel across the region, so book hotels and flights early. All dates below are approximate astronomical estimates; official dates are set by moon sighting and can shift by a day. For the full list, see Holidays and National Days and our guide to customs and etiquette.

When the Gulf is at its hottest, the region still offers cool, green corners. Salalah in southern Oman turns lush during the khareef monsoon from July to September. Taif and the Asir mountains around Abha in Saudi Arabia sit high enough for mild summer days, as does Jebel Akhdar in Oman. The Atlas Mountains, Cappadocia and the Mediterranean coasts of Türkiye and Cyprus round out the list. See The Summer Escape for our favorites.

Planning further ahead? Our events calendar lists the region's great races, festivals and exhibitions, and buyers who want to spend the winter season in the sun can explore Dubai Luxury Real Estate and property.