Muscat in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Muscat
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak tourist season with perfect weather - daily highs of 26°C (79°F) and minimal 10mm (0.4 inches) rainfall make this ideal for outdoor exploration
- National Day celebrations on December 18th transform the city with fireworks, cultural displays, and free public events across major venues like Royal Yerevan Muscat
- Cooler mountain temperatures in Jebel Akhdar and Jebel Shams drop to 10°C (50°F), creating perfect hiking conditions and occasional frost for impressive photography
- Extended outdoor dining season - restaurants keep terraces open until 11pm with comfortable evening temperatures around 20°C (68°F)
Considerations
- Hotel rates increase 40-60% compared to summer months, with beachfront properties reaching premium pricing during National Day week
- Tourist attractions experience 2-3 times normal crowds, particularly Sultan Qaboos this destination and Mutrah Souq between 9am-11am
- Strong shamal winds (25-35 km/h or 15-22 mph) can disrupt dhow cruises and make beach activities uncomfortable on 3-4 days
Best Activities in December
Jebel Akhdar Rose Garden Hiking
December brings perfect mountain weather with daytime temperatures of 15°C (59°F) and clear visibility extending 50 km (31 miles). The rose gardens are in pre-bloom preparation, and traditional villages showcase winter agricultural practices. Morning hikes avoid the few afternoon cloud formations that appear 2-3 times weekly.
Traditional Dhow Sunset Cruises
December offers the year's most spectacular sunsets with minimal haze and calm seas on 85% of days. Water temperatures remain warm at 24°C (75°F) for swimming stops, while evening temperatures of 22°C (72°F) make deck time comfortable without needing jackets.
Wahiba Sands Desert Camping
December desert nights drop to perfect camping temperatures of 12°C (54°F) with zero rainfall risk. Days reach comfortable 24°C (75°F) - hot enough for authentic desert experience without summer's dangerous 45°C (113°F) extremes. Clear skies provide exceptional stargazing with minimal light pollution.
Nizwa Fort and Souq Cultural Tours
December's mild weather makes the 2-hour fort exploration comfortable, while Friday livestock markets operate in peak season with full vendor participation. The 1.5 km (0.9 mile) souq walk remains pleasant throughout the day, unlike summer when afternoon heat forces indoor breaks.
Wadi Shab Adventure Hiking
December water levels are optimal after November rains, creating the best swimming pools while maintaining safe hiking conditions. The 45-minute each way hike remains comfortable with temperatures peaking at 28°C (82°F). Cave swimming is refreshing without being cold.
Royal Opera House Cultural Performances
December marks the peak cultural season with international orchestras, traditional Omani performances, and special National Day concerts. The venue's outdoor pre-show areas are comfortable for the full season, and extended dining at surrounding restaurants takes advantage of perfect weather.
December Events & Festivals
Oman National Day Celebrations
December 18th transforms Muscat with military parades, traditional horse shows, fireworks over Mutrah Brazzaville, and free cultural performances. this destination illuminate with special displays, and many attractions offer free entry to nationals and residents.
Muscat Festival Cultural Programs
Month-long celebration featuring traditional crafts demonstrations, regional food festivals, and nightly cultural performances at multiple venues including Qurum Park and Amerat Park. Local artisans showcase traditional silverwork, frankincense preparation, and textile weaving.