Downtown (Wust el-Balad) in March

October through March gives you the best weather - daytime temperatures hover around 22-25°C instead of the brutal summer heat. December and January can get surprisingly chilly at night, so pack a jacket. Ramadan changes everything. Streets empty during the day but come alive after sunset with iftar celebrations. Food stalls multiply and the energy is incredible, but many restaurants close during daylight hours. Avoid July and August unless you enjoy feeling like you're inside an oven. Temperatures hit 40°C and the concrete jungle makes it feel even hotter. Air conditioning becomes a survival necessity, not a luxury. Friday mornings see lighter crowds as many locals attend mosque, making it perfect for exploring without the usual chaos. But some shops and restaurants close for prayer times.