Katch the Best Ways to Beat the Heat in the Kingdom this Summer

1st June, 2025 | Food and Beverage, Hospitality, Public Relations

by - Beth Laverty

There’s no need to spend the whole summer season indoors, as Saudi Arabia has plenty of exciting dining experiences, breezy mountain day trips, and vibrant city staycations to keep you cool

Summer has officially arrived in the Kingdom, bringing with it a whole lot of sunshine and temperatures creeping into the 40s. Even for seasoned locals, this heat can be a lot to handle, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend every waking hour glued to the AC. Thankfully, Saudi Arabia is full of options for those looking to escape the heat, from light afternoon bites to city staycation offers.

Contrary to popular belief, Saudi Arabia isn’t all desert. Coastal spots offer fresh sea air, while mountainous regions like Aseer stay in the low 30s even in peak summer. So, why not pack for a day trip and check them out?

Venture beyond your local mall, grab an iced coffee, and join us as we explore the coolest things to do this summer.

Grab a Light Bite

Most of us crave something a little lighter during the warmer months, maybe even a sweet treat to recharge the energy the sun has zapped out of us. The country is awash with a vast range of dining options, and in this blog, we’ve kept things small in portion but big on flavour, ditching the buffet lunches (no judgement if that’s what you’re after though).

Starting strong in the holy city, Address Jabal Omar Makkah’s Lobby Lounge & Café serves an array of snacks and expertly brewed coffees, perfect for refuelling after a day of visiting the city’s sacred sites. Settle into plush private booths and tuck into savoury delights such as the succulent chicken wings, tasty beef bao buns, and delectable sliders. Alternatively, satisfy your sweet tooth with some chef-crafted cakes and pastries or a selection of ice creams, all washed down by a Saudi coffee.

If you’re still searching for that certain je ne sais quoi, look no further than Pierre Hermé in Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre. Known for its legendary pastries, macarons, and chocolates, dessert lovers will have an absolute field day here. Experience the craftsmanship for yourself with signature creations such as the rose madeleines topped with raspberry and lychee compote, or caramelised 2000 Feuilles layered with hazelnut praline cream.

Take a Day Trip

Embrace the slower pace of the season and take the opportunity to explore new corners of Saudi Arabia with a day trip to one of the Kingdom’s cooler climates. Those in search of a change of scenery can head to Aseer, known for its misty mountains at dawn, waterfalls, forested areas, and picturesque valleys. Perched over 2,000 metres above sea level, Abha, the region’s capital, is one of the coolest cities in Saudi Arabia during the summer months.

There’s lots to do too. Start the trip with a hike to the top of Jebel Sawda, the highest peak in Saudi Arabia, and soak in the panoramic views. Alternatively, make your way to Jurf Reedah Reserve, only 30 minutes from Abha and home to ancient juniper forests, Arabian wolves, lynxes, hyraxes, and rare birds like the Arabian woodpecker and Aseeri magpie. Finally, finish the day with a sunset kayaking trip across Dhabou’i Dam.

While not as cool as the mountains, the Saudi coast is also a good spot to retreat to when the weather heats up. Breathe in the refreshing Red Sea breeze along the iconic Jeddah Corniche, or dive beneath the waves into crystal-clear waters to explore vibrant coral reefs. Once temperatures begin to drop on land, take a stroll along the waterfront and check out the illuminated King Fahd Fountain, propelling water an astonishing 312 metres into the air.

Summer Staycation

The arrival of the warmer season calls for a getaway, and with The Hotel Galleria Jeddah, Curio Collection by Hilton’s exclusive summer offer, you can enjoy one without leaving the Kingdom. Situated on the lively Tahlia Street, this Milan-inspired landmark exudes timeless elegance, boasting 363 chic rooms and 99 spacious suites. Summer 2025 brings even more reasons to check in, thanks to 15% off Room Only and Bed & Breakfast stays and 20% off for Hilton Honors members on Dinner + Bed & Breakfast packages.

Swap the midday heat for relaxed hours by the rooftop pool, then sip refreshing mocktails at Milano Café before wandering Al-Balad’s historic lanes or browsing the luxury boutiques just steps away at Tahlia shopping district.

There are endless ways to keep cool this summer in Saudi Arabia, and we hope our top picks have inspired you to try something new. Be it a light lunch, a mountain escape, or a full-blown staycation, the season is what you make of it. Just don’t forget the sunscreen, keep a bottle of water close by, and get out there to enjoy every sunny minute.

For more related updates and to Katch us covering similar topics, watch this space!

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