Last updated: January 18, 2025
Raʼs al Khaymah, located in the United Arab Emirates, exhibits a BWh climate classification, characterized by arid conditions with minimal precipitation. Throughout the year, temperatures fluctuate significantly, with a minimum of 10°C (51°F) recorded in February. The region experiences an average temperature of 28°C (82°F), rising to scorching peaks of 40°C (104°F) during the summer month of August. This temperature profile underscores the intense heat and dry climate that define Raʼs al Khaymah, making it a unique environment for both residents and visitors.
Raʼs al Khaymah experiences distinct seasonal temperature patterns throughout the year, beginning with mild winter months from January to March, where minimum temperatures range from 10°C (51°F) to 15°C (59°F) and average around 20°C to 23°C (68°F to 74°F). As spring progresses into April and May, temperatures rise significantly, with averages climbing to 28°C (83°F) in April and reaching up to 31°C (88°F) in May. The peak summer months of June, July, and August bring exceptionally high temperatures, frequently touching 40°C (104°F), and maintaining night lows around 29°C (84°F). As the year transitions into fall, temperatures gradually decrease, with averages dropping from 34°C (94°F) in September to 30°C (86°F) by October, and further cooling into December, highlighting the region's sharp contrasts between the scorching summer and milder winter.
Ras Al Khaimah City experiences a diverse temperature range throughout the year, with February marking the coldest month, recording minimum temperatures of 10°C (51°F), while the peak of summer in August sees maximum temperatures soaring to 40°C (104°F). For more detailed climate information, you can refer to the monthly temperatures in Ras Al Khaimah City.
Raʼs al Khaymah's precipitation patterns reflect a predominantly arid climate, with the bulk of rainfall occurring in the cooler months from January to March. January and February each receive about 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while March sees a slight increase to 25 mm (1.0 in), typically spread over 2 to 3 days. As the region transitions into spring and summer, rainfall sharply declines, with April recording only 14 mm (0.5 in) and May experiencing a near-complete drop to just 1 mm (0.0 in).
The summer months from June to September are characterized by an almost total absence of precipitation, with 0 mm recorded during this period. After the summer heat, minimal rainfall reappears in the fall; October sees 1 mm (0.0 in) and November 8 mm (0.3 in), with December bringing a slight uptick to 17 mm (0.7 in). This sporadic and limited rainfall throughout the year underscores Raʼs al Khaymah's classification as an arid region, with overall annual precipitation falling significantly below the global average.
In Raʼs al Khaymah, the duration of sunshine reveals a clear seasonal trend marked by a steady increase from winter to summer. Starting with 247 hours of sunshine in January, the region experiences a gradual rise, reaching 283 hours in February and further climbing to 331 hours in March. By April, the sunshine hours peak at 341 hours, signaling the onset of the hotter months. The trend continues through May, when sunlit hours peak once more at 375 hours, underscoring the vibrant sunlight that characterizes the early summer season.
The summer months of June, July, and August maintain robust sunshine durations, each averaging around 370 to 375 hours. As the summer heat gradually gives way to fall, sunshine hours begin to taper off slightly, with 335 hours in September and 332 hours in October, indicating a transition period. By November and December, Raʼs al Khaymah still enjoys considerable sunshine, with 305 hours and 301 hours respectively, but these values are lower than the peak summer months. Overall, the sunshine duration paints a picture of a region rich in sun, with a particularly pronounced intensity during the peak summer months.
Raʼs al Khaymah experiences significant fluctuations in the UV Index (UVI) throughout the year, reflecting its arid climate and high solar exposure. The year begins with a moderate UVI of 6 in January, which increases to 8 in February. As spring approaches, the UVI skyrockets, peaking at an intense 11 in both March and April. This spike signifies the onset of harsher sunlight conditions, prompting caution for outdoor activities during these months.
The summer months maintain a consistently high UVI, with levels reaching up to 12 in May, before settling back to 11 from June through August. Even as summer transitions to early fall, the UVI remains elevated at 10 in September. The year closes with a gradual decline, dropping to 8 in October, 7 in November, and returning to a safer 5 in December. This decline highlights the importance of sun protection in the peak months, particularly during late spring and summer when UV exposure is at its maximum.
UV Risk Categories
In Raʼs al Khaymah, the duration of daylight exhibits a predictable seasonal pattern that reflects the region's geographical positioning. January begins with approximately 10 hours of daylight, gradually increasing to 11 hours in February, and reaching 12 hours by March and April. This steady rise in daylight hours aligns with the approach of spring and hints at the region's increasing solar exposure as the days grow longer.
As the summer months kick in, daylight duration peaks at 13 hours in May, June, and July, providing ample time for outdoor activities under the bright sun. However, as summer transitions to autumn, daylight begins to wane, dropping back to 12 hours in August and September, and further declining to 11 hours in October. By the end of the year, daylight duration stabilizes at 10 hours in November and December, marking a return to shorter days as winter sets in. This cyclical pattern not only enhances the understanding of Raʼs al Khaymah's climate but also guides residents and visitors in planning their outdoor engagements throughout the year.
Ras Al Khaimah City in the United Arab Emirates experiences a hot desert climate characterized by extremely high temperatures during the summer months and mild winters. From June to August, average temperatures soar to around 34°C (94°F) with highs reaching 40°C (104°F), while in the cooler months of December to February, the average temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 22°C (71°F). The city receives limited rainfall, mostly between January and March, with an annual total of approximately 105 mm (4.1 in). Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, peaking during May and July with around 370 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit Ras Al Khaimah City climate.
In summary, Raʼs al Khaymah, United Arab Emirates, displays distinct climatic characteristics marked by high temperatures, limited precipitation, and significant sunshine. The region's BWh climate leads to scorching summers with peak temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F), while the cooler months bring mild conditions and sporadic rainfall. The UV Index also highlights the need for sun protection during spring and summer, with levels frequently exceeding 10, necessitating caution for outdoor activities. Additionally, daylight duration adheres to a predictable pattern, peaking at 13 hours in the height of summer before returning to shorter days in winter. This comprehensive understanding of Raʼs al Khaymah's climate not only informs residents' daily lives but also enhances visitors' experiences in this sun-drenched locale.