December offers comfortable winter weather and many public festivities, culminating in Qatar National Day celebrations. Outdoor dining and evening events are particularly pleasant.
SeasonHigh SeasonTemperature 17-25°C (63-77°F)Crowds HighPrices High
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Temperature map
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Average temperature across Qatar in December.
Where to Go in Qatar in December
Doha & the Eastern Coast
The Corniche, The Pearl, Katara
Winter settles in with brisk mornings and clear nights; daytime temperatures are comfortably in the high teens to low 20s while evenings fall to around 12°C. Occasional short rain squalls may strike the city, briefly wetting streets and clearing dust; pack a compact umbrella and a medium-weight jacket for evening activities. This is one of the most reliable months for outdoor festivals and evening dining along the Corniche, but it’s also when visitor numbers are highest.
Northern Coast & Al Khor
Al Khor, Ras Rakan, Al Thakhira
Winter settles in with bright mornings and chilly nights; daytime temperatures usually remain in the high teens to low 20s and the tidal flats are alive with wintering birds. Strong shamal gusts can still occur, bringing dust and rougher offshore conditions, but many days are calm and cool - perfect for long coastline drives and visits to Zubarah Fort. Pack a warm layer for predawn boat trips and expect busier weekends among locals and birdwatchers.
Western Coast & Dukhan Dunes
Dukhan, Ras Abrouq/Buq, Zekreet
Midwinter here brings clear, brisk days and chilly nights; daytime highs lie in the high teens to low 20s while mornings can be near 10°C in open hollows. Strong shamal gusts may still blow sand at times, but many calm, sunny days are ideal for exploring Zekreet and the nearby abandoned structures for dramatic daylight. A warm jacket and windproof outer layer are useful for early boat launches and dawn dune treks.
Southern Coast, Mesaieed & Khor Al Adaid
Al Wakrah, Mesaieed, Sealine
Winter returns with cool, dry mornings and mild afternoons along the southern coastline; daytime temperatures usually hover around 18-22°C and nights can be cool. Sealine and nearby dunes are busy with weekend campers and families enjoying clear skies; pack a warm jacket for pre-dawn dune photography. Occasional short rains can freshen the landscape but rarely disrupt plans for longer than a few hours.
Central Interior & Sand Dunes
Sealine-Inland Desert, central plateau
Winter returns with clear, cold nights and comfortable daytime warmth ideal for extended desert activities; pre-dawn temperatures can drop to single digits and the sun warms days into the high teens or low 20s. The lack of humidity makes hiking and off-road driving more pleasant, and milky-way night skies are impressive; bring a warm sleeping bag and dress in layers for the large temperature swings.
Events & Festivals in December
Qatar National Day
Qatar National Day (December 18) features parades, fireworks and national celebrations across Doha and other cities.
Planning a trip to Qatar?
See how December compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.
