Climate of Kuwait

Last updated: April 14, 2025

Kuwait's climate is characterized by extreme heat in summer and scarce precipitation, defining its arid environment. Temperatures can soar up to a scorching 51°C (124°F) in July in Al Aḩmadī, with humidity plummeting to an average low of 9% during this peak heat. Conversely, winters bring a significant drop, with February witnessing minimum temperatures of 0°C (32°F) in the same region. Precipitation is highly variable, ranging from 0 mm (0.0 in) in August to a maximum of 57 mm (2.3 in) in November in Al Asimah, where humidity levels also demonstrate considerable variation, peaking at 42% in the cooler months. This unique climatic profile makes Kuwait a fascinating study of extreme weather patterns and their implications on the environment and society.

Kuwait Climate Zones

Kuwait is characterized by a BWh climate classification, which signifies a hot desert environment. This climatic pattern is prevalent across several regions, including Al Asimah, Al Aḩmadī, Al Farwaniyah, Al Jahrāʼ, Hawalli, and Mubārak al Kabīr. With scorching summers and mild winters, Kuwait experiences minimal rainfall, making it a quintessential desert climate. The arid conditions significantly shape the local flora and fauna, resulting in a unique ecosystem adapted to survive in harsh temperatures.

Köppen-Geiger Climate Classification of Kuwait
Climate ZoneDescription
BWhHot desert climate with extremely low rainfall and high temperatures.

Kuwait Temperature by Month

Kuwait experiences a dramatic temperature range throughout the year, beginning with mild winters in January, where temperatures can dip to a chilly 2°C (36°F), and peak at a comfortable 27°C (81°F). As February approaches, the mercury fluctuates even more, dropping to a near-freezing 0°C (32°F) while soaring up to 35°C (96°F). By March, the warmth intensifies, with highs reaching a scorching 42°C (109°F). The summer months of May and June are especially relentless, peaking at a blistering 47°C (117°F) and a staggering 50°C (122°F) respectively. July and August continue the trend, maintaining highs around 51°C (124°F). As fall arrives in September, temperatures gradually ease, though they can still rise to 48°C (119°F). By October, cooler nights beckon with lows of 14°C (57°F), tapering off to more pleasant averages by December, where the range settles between 5°C (42°F) and 30°C (85°F). Overall, Kuwait's temperatures reflect a stark seasonal contrast, from mild winter chills to extreme summer heat, making it a land of climate extremes.

Monthly Temperatures in Kuwait

The chart illustrates Kuwait's temperature patterns throughout the year, with values aggregated from various locations across the region. It highlights seasonal variations and temperature changes across the months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec596168778796989894857263
Data source: Kuwait temperature data aggregated from multiple country locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

Precipitation Patterns in Kuwait

Kuwait's precipitation patterns reveal a marked seasonal variation, characterized by a stark contrast between the dry summer months and the more humid winter period. Notably, August stands out as the driest month, with precipitation levels plummeting to 0 mm in Al Asimah, while November brings a significant uptick, with averages reaching 57 mm in the same area. This trend is mirrored in the number of rainy days, as June frequently records 0 days of rain in Al Aḩmadī, only to surge to a maximum of 4 days in November. Such patterns underscore the importance of winter months for water replenishment in an otherwise arid climate, highlighting a critical dependency on these seasonal rains.

Precipitation Trends in Kuwait

The chart illustrates Kuwait's yearly temperature patterns, showing data aggregated from various locations across the region, highlighting seasonal variations and monthly temperature changes.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec51417102000035719
Data source: Kuwait precipitation data aggregated from multiple country locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

Kuwait Humidity

Kuwait experiences a significant range in humidity levels throughout the year, highlighting its diverse climate. In the peak of summer, July sees humidity plummet to a mere 9% in Al Aḩmadī, contributing to the dry and sweltering conditions typical of the season. In contrast, the cooler month of November brings a rise in moisture, with humidity levels peaking at 42% in Al Asimah. This trend underscores the country's stark seasonal shifts, where a dry desert climate gives way to more humid conditions as temperatures gradually decrease, making late autumn a notably more comfortable time of year.

Average Humidity in Kuwait

Kuwait's Average Monthly Humidity Levels: This chart highlights Kuwait's humidity fluctuations throughout the year, making it easy to compare seasonal trends. See how humidity varies month by month and understand Kuwait's climate patterns.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec38%30%33%33%26%14%9%10%14%30%42%42%
Data source: Humidity data for Kuwait generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Kuwait UV Index Trends

Kuwait's UV Index trends reveal consistently high levels of solar radiation, particularly in May, where the average daily maximum UVI reaches an impressive 11 in both Mubārak al Kabīr and Al Aḩmadī. This notable uniformity across these regions underscores the intensity of sunlight during this period, prompting residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions against harmful UV exposure. As the country experiences such extreme levels, awareness of the UV Index becomes vital for ensuring safety and promoting sun-smart practices.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kuwait

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) in Kuwait, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec57910111010109754
Data source: Kuwait UV Index data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Sunshine Duration in Kuwait

Kuwait experiences a striking variation in sunshine duration throughout the year. In January, the sun graces Mubārak al Kabīr with 228 hours and slightly more in Al Jahrāʼ at 229 hours, marking the winter months with a modest yet notable amount of sunshine. As the seasons transition into summer, this figure skyrockets, with Mubārak al Kabīr basking in an impressive 378 hours of sunlight in July, while Al Asimah enjoys an even greater tally of 379 hours. This dramatic increase underscores Kuwait's reputation for long, sun-drenched summers, making it a haven for sun-seekers during the warmer months.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kuwait

The Kuwait sunshine duration chart shows the total hours of direct sunlight in Kuwait each month, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods, and compares the sunshine duration across different months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec228h277h328h330h366h374h379h363h334h316h281h280h
Data source: Kuwait sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple country locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

Chance of Sun in Kuwait

When examining the likelihood of sunny weather in Kuwait, a striking contrast emerges between the months. December in Al Jahrāʼ sees a moderate 44% chance of sunshine, reflecting the cooler winter season's influence. In vivid contrast, September in Al Asimah experiences an impressive 100% likelihood of sunny days, showcasing the intense heat and clear skies typical of the summer months. This trend highlights Kuwait's climatic extremes, where the transition from summer to winter significantly alters the sunny weather experience across different regions.

Percentage of Sunny Days in Kuwait

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kuwait throughout the year. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Kuwait experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec75%70%85%61%85%99%98%97%100%94%82%45%
Data source: Kuwait chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Average Daylight Hours Across the Kuwait

In Kuwait, daylight hours exhibit a notable seasonal variation, with roughly 10 hours of sunlight in December and extending to around 13 hours in June in Al Asimah. This trend highlights the significant impact of summer, where the longer days invite more outdoor activities and exploration of the vibrant culture. As winter approaches, the shorter days encourage a cozier lifestyle, often leading to more time spent indoors. This rhythm of light not only shapes the daily routines of residents but also influences local festivities, making each season in Kuwait uniquely inviting in its own right.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in Kuwait

This chart shows the total daylight hours Kuwait receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 28m11h 8m11h 59m12h 52m13h 36m13h 58m13h 46m13h 8m12h 18m11h 25m10h 39m10h 16m
Data source: Kuwait daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

Climate Breakdown by Kuwait Region

Al Asimah, Kuwait, showcases a hot desert climate with a remarkable temperature range throughout the year. January begins cool, with temperatures dipping as low as 5°C (41°F), while July and August bring relentless heat, often soaring to a sweltering 45°C (114°F). Rainfall is scarce, especially during the summer months, with June, July, and August typically experiencing no precipitation at all. Humidity remains low in the hotter months, often plunging below 10%, making the heat feel even more intense. For those interested in detailed weather patterns, explore more at Al Asimah climate.

In Al Aḩmadī, Kuwait, the climate reveals a striking contrast between the cooler winter months and the scorching summer heat. January welcomes visitors with mild temperatures averaging around 15°C (59°F), while by July, the thermometers can soar to a sweltering 38°C (101°F), peaking at 51°C (124°F). Interestingly, precipitation is scarce, particularly during the summer, with June to September seeing virtually no rainfall. Humidity levels also fluctuate, plummeting to a dry 9% in the heart of summer before rising in the cooler months. For a more detailed look at the city's weather patterns, visit Al Aḩmadī climate.

Al Farwaniyah, Kuwait experiences a desert climate marked by extreme temperatures throughout the year. In summer, from June to August, soaring daytime highs can reach up to 45°C (113°F), while winter months like January bring much cooler temperatures, averaging around 15°C (59°F). Rainfall is scarce, peaking in November with about 52 mm (2.1 in), but often dwindling to near zero in the sweltering summer. The humidity fluctuates, hitting lows of just 9% in July, giving a parched feel to the heat. Despite its challenging weather, Al Farwaniyah climate showcases the unique beauty and resilience of life in this arid region.

Al Jahrāʼ, Kuwait, experiences an extreme desert climate, where summer temperatures can soar to a scorching 51°C (124°F) in July and August, while winter months offer a much milder respite, with averages around 14°C (58°F) in January. Rainfall is scarce, peaking modestly at 53 mm (2.1 in) in November, with the summer months receiving almost no precipitation. Low humidity levels, especially in the peak of summer, can plummet to just 9%, creating a dry heat that often feels even more intense. For a deeper dive into Al Jahrāʼ's climate, check out Al Jahrāʼ climate.

Nestled in the heart of Kuwait, Hawalli experiences a diverse range of temperatures throughout the year, with winter months averaging a comfortable 15-20°C (59-68°F) before soaring into the intense heat of summer, where highs often reach 45°C (113°F). Precipitation is minimal, peaking in November but remaining scarce during the scorching summer months, leading to a dry climate that can drop humidity levels to as low as 9%. As winter rolls in, expect cooler nights, making it an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities. For a detailed overview of this region's climate, explore more at Hawalli climate.

Mubārak al Kabīr experiences a desert climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. From January to March, temperatures gradually rise from a refreshing 15°C (59°F) to a warm 20°C (69°F), while winter precipitation is minimal, peaking in November with 52 mm of rainfall. Summer months swing to extremes, hitting highs around a blistering 45°C (113°F) in June through August, and humidity dwindles to as low as 9%. Despite the intense heat and scant rain during the summer, the transition to cooler autumn brings a pleasant relief, making this largely dry region a unique climatic experience. Discover more about the region's weather patterns at Mubārak al Kabīr climate.

Summary and Key Takeaways on the Climate of the Kuwait

The climate of Kuwait is characterized by extreme temperature fluctuations and minimal precipitation, underscoring a stark contrast between the seasons. In February, temperatures can plunge to a chilly 0°C (32°F) in Al Aḩmadī, while July brings scorching highs of 51°C (124°F) in the same region, creating some of the hottest conditions on Earth. Rainfall is scarce, with August seeing virtually no precipitation in Al Asimah, while November can provide a brief respite with its maximum of 57 mm (2.3 in) of rain—a stark reminder of the dryness that dominates the climate. Humidity levels also reveal a significant seasonal variance, dropping to a mere 9% in the sweltering July heat of Al Aḩmadī, but rising to 42% by November, adding a layer of discomfort during the cooler months. Overall, Kuwait’s climate presents a vivid tapestry of extremes, making it a unique environment that shapes the lifestyle and culture of its people.