Saudi NCM Issues Weather Forecast for Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah

The Saudi National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued a comprehensive weather forecast for the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, along with the major Red Sea port city of Jeddah, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to providing accurate and timely climate information to residents and the millions of pilgrims visiting these locations. The forecast, updated daily, emphasizes the safety and preparedness efforts that align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for enhancing the quality of life and ensuring reliable public services for all visitors and citizens.

Context and Background

The NCM, established as a government entity under the Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, has modernized its meteorological infrastructure in recent years. Investments in advanced radar systems, satellite data integration, and predictive modeling have significantly improved the accuracy of weather predictions across the Kingdom. This technological upgrade is particularly vital for Makkah and Madinah, which annually host the Hajj pilgrimage and the year-round Umrah, drawing millions of worshippers from around the world. Jeddah, serving as the primary gateway for these pilgrims through King Abdulaziz International Airport, also relies on precise weather data to ensure smooth operations for travel and logistics.

Key Details of the Forecast

According to the latest NCM advisories, the weather in Makkah is expected to remain relatively hot with some cloud cover, while Madinah is forecast to see mild conditions with a slight chance of localized rain. Jeddah’s coastal location will bring higher humidity levels, with temperatures ranging between 26°C and 35°C. The NCM has also issued alerts for potential dust storms in open areas surrounding Makkah and Madinah, advising travelers and religious visitors to follow official guidance. These forecasts are disseminated through the NCM’s official mobile application, website, and social media channels, ensuring widespread accessibility. The center has emphasized that its warnings are based on real-time data analysis, supporting the General Authority of Civil Aviation’s flight schedules and the Hajj and Umrah Ministry’s crowd management plans.

Implications for Pilgrims and Residents

Accurate weather forecasting directly impacts the safety and health of millions. The NCM coordinates with the Saudi Red Crescent Authority and the Ministry of Health to issue extreme heat or dust warnings, which are crucial for reducing heatstroke cases and respiratory issues during peak pilgrimage seasons. For residents of Jeddah, humidity and temperature data help in planning daily activities, while coastal warnings are critical for maritime and fishing industries. The integration of meteorological data into the broader smart city initiatives in these regions is part of the Kingdom’s digital transformation under Vision 2030, aiming to create more resilient and responsive urban environments.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The enhanced weather forecasting capabilities directly support Vision 2030’s goal of improving the quality of life and public service efficiency in Saudi Arabia. By providing accurate and timely weather information, the NCM helps safeguard the health of citizens, residents, and the continuous flow of religious visitors, which is central to the Pilgrim Experience Program — a key Vision 2030 driver. This commitment to precise meteorological data also builds international trust and reliability, positioning the Kingdom as a leader in environmental monitoring and public safety in the region. As Saudi Arabia continues to expand its tourism and religious hospitality sectors, such infrastructure will be increasingly essential for sustainable growth and global engagement.