Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Kuwait City is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially given the region's hot desert climate characterized by intense sunlight. With UV levels peaking at 10 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, residents and visitors alike should be aware of their exposure risk during these hours. This awareness not only helps in protecting against immediate sunburn but also contributes to long-term skin health, making it essential for outdoor activities. So, whether you're exploring the vibrant cityscape or soaking in the sun, keeping an eye on the UV Index can help you enjoy the warmth safely.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index begins at a mild 2 at 7:00 AM, slowly rising to reach a moderate 4 by 8:00 AM. The intensity climbs steadily, peaking at 10 by 11:00 AM and remaining at this maximum level until 12:00 PM. As the afternoon approaches, the index begins to decline, dropping to 9 at 1:00 PM, and back to 4 by 3:00 PM. By the time the sun sets, the UV Index decreases significantly to 1 at 5:00 PM and just 0 by 7:00 PM, making the early hours the most crucial for sun protection. Remember, while outdoor activities are enticing, being mindful of the UV levels is essential for skin safety!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index reflects significant seasonal changes in sun exposure. The high-risk months for UV radiation are March through October, peaking in May with an extreme UV Index of 11, resulting in a burn time of only 10 minutes. During this time, caution is crucial, as exposure even for a short duration can lead to skin damage. Visitors and residents are advised to take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing, especially during peak hours from 10 AM to 4 PM. As the UV levels drop in the winter months of November and December, with indices returning to moderate levels of 5 and 4 respectively, the need for intense sun protection decreases, although it remains important to be mindful of UV exposure year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al Fahahil UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Kuwait City | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Al Farwaniyah UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Sabah as Salim UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Hawalli UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Al Ahmadi UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |