Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for anyone enjoying the sun-soaked beaches of Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. With its predominantly arid climate, this popular resort town experiences high UV exposure, especially during peak hours. Knowing the daily UV levels can help you prevent painful sunburns and protect your long-term skin health. With UV Index readings peaking at 11 around midday, it’s essential to be aware of how to safeguard yourself from overexposure while soaking up the stunning Egyptian sun. Stay informed and enjoy the beautiful weather safely!
The UV Index (UVI) exhibits a notable pattern throughout the day. Starting at 2 at 7:00 AM, it gradually rises, peaking at 11 by noon and 1:00 PM. This high level of UV exposure indicates that sun protection is essential during these hours. As the afternoon progresses, the UVI begins to dip, dropping to 7 by 2:00 PM and then declining further to 5 by 3:00 PM. By late afternoon, the sunlight's intensity reduces significantly, with the UVI falling to 1 by 5:00 PM and remaining minimal through 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of taking precautions during peak hours while enjoying the outdoors.
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. From January to February, the index starts at 6 (high) and remains at 7, representing a consistent caution for sun safety with a burn time of 25 minutes. As spring approaches, March escalates to 9 (very high) with a reduced burn time of 15 minutes, leading into the peak summer months of May through August, where the index reaches an extreme level of 11 and a swift burn time of just 10 minutes. The risk diminishes slightly in September and October to 10 and 9, respectively, but still falls within the very high exposure category. As the year closes out, November and December see a drop to 6 (high) and 5 (moderate). Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions, particularly from March to August, when the sun is most intense, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize risk of sunburn and skin damage.
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 |
| Sharm el-Sheikh | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 5 |
| Suez UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 5 |