UV Index in Sohar, Oman

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Sohar, Oman, where the sun shines intensely for much of the year. Awareness of UV levels can significantly aid in preventing sunburn and protecting long-term skin health. With typical conditions in Sohar classified under the BWh climate zone, the risks of elevated UV exposure are particularly high, especially between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, when levels peak at a staggering 12. Staying informed about these critical UV Index readings ensures that you can enjoy the sun safely while minimizing the risk of harmful effects on your skin.

Hourly UV Index in Sohar

The UV Index today paints a striking picture of sun exposure throughout the day. Starting off at a low 1 by 07:00, the intensity gradually climbs, reaching 3 by 08:00. By 09:00, it surges to 5, but the real peak arrives at 12:00, where it hits an impressive 12, indicating very high sun strength. As the afternoon progresses, the index slowly declines: 11 at 13:00, 9 at 14:00, and 7 by 15:00. The evening brings relief, with readings dropping to 4 at 16:00, 2 at 17:00, and back to a safe 1 by 18:00, before ultimately reaching 0 by 19:00. For sun enthusiasts, midday offers the brightest rays, but caution is advised during those peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	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	7	high	25 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Sohar

Throughout the year, seasonal changes in UV Index highlight significant fluctuations in sun exposure risk. The highest risk months are typically from March to July, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels, particularly peaking at 12 in May and July, necessitating a burn time of just 10 minutes. Conversely, January, November, and December offer lower UV levels with an index of 6-7, and a safer burn time of 25 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions during high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM, to ensure safety against harmful UV rays.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Sohar, Oman

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Sohar. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Sohar, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Sohar UV Index with Other Oman Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Sohar compares to other major locations across Oman. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Sohar's solar exposure compared to other cities in Oman. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Sohar	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
Salalah UVI	10	11	13	14	13	13	13	12	13	11	10	9