Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Al Khaburah, Oman, being aware of the UV Index is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburns amid the region's typically intense sunlight. With a climate characterized by a hot desert environment (BWh), UV levels can reach dangerously high peaks, particularly between 11 AM and 1 PM, where the Index climbs to a staggering 11. Understanding these UV levels not only aids in safeguarding your skin but also enhances your overall outdoor experience, allowing you to relish the sun while taking necessary precautions against its harmful effects. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off mild at 1 by 7:00 AM, making it a great time for early risers to enjoy outdoor activities. However, by 8:00 AM, it ramps up to 3, hinting at the sun's increasing intensity. The day peaks at 12:00 PM with a UV Index of 11, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The intensity slightly decreases after 1:00 PM, with values dropping to 9 by 2:00 PM and further down to 6 by 3:00 PM. As the afternoon transitions into evening, the UV levels decline steadily, reaching 1 by 6:00 PM and ultimately falling to 0 by 7:00 PM, reminding us that the safest sun exposure occurs earlier in the day. Be sure to take precautions during peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | 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, UV exposure varies significantly, peaking during the warmer months. January starts with a UV Index of 7 (high), but by February, it escalates to 8 (very high), indicating an increased risk. The months of March through July represent the highest risk, with UV Index values reaching 12 (extreme) and a notably brief burn time of just 10 minutes. August and September maintain an UV Index of 11 (extreme), stressing the importance of sun protection. As temperatures cool, October sees a decrease to 9 (very high), followed by a return to high levels in November and December with indices of 7 and 6, respectively, and longer burn times of 25 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions during the high-risk months from March through September, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during midday when UV radiation is at its peak.
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 |
| Al Khaburah | 7 | 8 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 6 |
| Salalah UVI | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 9 |