Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Nizwa, Oman, is vital for protecting your skin and overall health under the region's intense sun. With its predominantly dry and hot climate (BWh), Nizwa experiences significant UV exposure, peaking at a remarkable 12 during midday hours. By staying informed about UV levels, you can take proactive measures to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Whether you’re enjoying outdoor activities or simply soaking in the natural beauty of this historic city, awareness of the UV Index can help you make smarter choices for safer sun exposure.
The UV Index presents a striking profile throughout the day, peaking dramatically from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM with a maximum value of 12, indicating an intense level of solar radiation. Early risers will notice a more moderate ascent as the index starts at 2 at 07:00 AM, gradually climbing to 3 by 08:00 AM. The real intensity begins at 09:00 AM, surging to 6 before reaching a zenith of 11 by 11:00 AM. As the sun begins to dip post-noon, the index recedes to 9 at 02:00 PM, then gently descends to 6 by 03:00 PM, and continues its downward trend to settle at 0 by 07:00 PM. This data emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the peak hours when ultraviolet radiation is most potent.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, solar UV exposure varies significantly, with the highest risk months being from February to September, where the UV Index often reaches extreme levels of 12 or 13. Notably, March, April, May, July, and August all maintain an extreme exposure category, indicating a burn time of only 10 minutes for unprotected skin. Residents and visitors should take precautionary measures during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen frequently, and seeking shade during peak hours. As we transition into November and December, the risk is somewhat lower, with a return to high exposure in January and December, but attention to UV protection remains essential year-round, especially during high and very high index periods.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sohar UVI | 6 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 6 |
Bawshar UVI | 7 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 7 |
Seeb UVI | 7 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 7 |
Muscat UVI | 7 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 7 |
Nizwa | 7 | 9 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 7 |
Salalah UVI | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 9 |