UV Index in Manama, Bahrain

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Manama, Bahrain, where the sun’s intensity can lead to serious skin health issues if left unchecked. With the BWh climate characterized by hot, arid conditions, the risk of sunburn skyrockets, especially during peak hours when UV levels soar to a high of 11 in the afternoon. By staying informed about daily UV exposure levels, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin and enjoy the sunny outdoors safely. Whether you're working, exploring the vibrant city, or unwinding at the beach, knowing the UV Index can help you make informed decisions and prioritize your health under the bright Bahraini sun.

Hourly UV Index in Manama

The UV Index rises steadily through the morning, starting at a manageable 2 at 7:00 AM, before peaking at an intensity of 11 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. This peak signifies a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, urging everyone to take necessary precautions. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, dropping to 9 by 1:00 PM and further to 4 by 3:00 PM. By evening, the UV levels dwindle to 1 at 5:00 PM, reaching 0 by 7:00 PM, indicating a safe period for outdoor activities without sun protection. It's crucial to be mindful of these variations throughout the day to ensure skin safety!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	2	low	45 min
08:00	4	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	high	25 min
10:00	9	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	9	very high	15 min
14:00	7	high	25 min
15:00	4	moderate	30 min
16:00	2	low	45 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Manama

The UV Index experiences notable fluctuations throughout the year, peaking in the late spring and summer months. High-risk months are primarily March through October, where values reach 10 or above, indicating very high to extreme exposure categories. Particularly hazardous are May and June, both with a UV Index of 11, where the burn time is dangerously short at just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun safety during these months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly. As the season shifts into November and December, the UV risk decreases, with burn times extending to 25–30 minutes, allowing for safer outdoor activities. Nevertheless, vigilance is still advised, particularly in early spring when UV levels can still pose risks.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Manama, Bahrain

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Manama. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Manama, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Manama UV Index with Other Bahrain Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Manama compares to other major locations across Bahrain. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Manama's solar exposure compared to other cities in Bahrain. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Manama	6	7	10	10	11	11	10	10	9	8	6	5
Ar Rifa' UVI	6	7	10	10	11	11	10	10	9	8	6	5
Al Muharraq UVI	6	7	10	10	11	11	10	10	9	8	6	5
Madinat Hamad UVI	6	8	10	10	11	11	10	10	9	8	7	5
Dar Kulayb UVI	6	8	10	10	11	11	10	10	9	8	7	5