Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of El Gouna, Egypt, where the intense sunshine is a defining feature of the BWh climate. High UV levels, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, can lead to severe sunburn, skin damage, and long-term health risks. With peak UV Index values soaring to 11, it's essential to be vigilant about sun protection, ensuring that both your skin and overall health remain safeguarded against the relentless Egyptian sun. By staying informed about UV levels, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoor lifestyle that El Gouna offers, while minimizing potential harm from ultraviolet radiation.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a dynamic picture of sun exposure. As early as 7:00 AM, the index starts at a mild 2, ramping up to a moderate 4 by 8:00 AM. The sun's intensity peaks around 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM with a striking 11, marking the height of caution for outdoor activities. As we move into the afternoon, the index gradually declines, dropping to 8 by 2:00 PM and further to 5 by 3:00 PM. The evening brings relief, with the UV Index decreasing to a 1 by 5:00 PM and finally hitting 0 by 7:00 PM. It’s clear that the midday hours pose the greatest risk, so sun safety measures are essential during those peak times.
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months. From March through August, the UV Index reaches notable highs, particularly in May, June, and July, where it peaks at 11—classified as extreme. High-risk months include March through August, with ideal exposure times decreasing as UV levels rise, notably dropping to just 10 minutes of safe exposure during the peak of summer. Visitors and residents should exercise caution and prioritize sun safety during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. As the year progresses into September and October, UV levels remain high but decrease, allowing for longer exposure times of up to 15 minutes. In the cooler months, November and December, UV exposure is lower, yet individuals should still be aware of sun safety practices, especially in sunny regions.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Port Said UVI | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Alexandria UVI | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Giza UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 5 |
| Cairo UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 5 |
| El Gouna | 6 | 7 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 5 |
| Suez UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 5 |