Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Madha' al Jadidah, Oman, where the sun's intensity can pose significant health risks. With high UV levels peaking at 11 during midday hours, it is crucial to be aware of these fluctuations to protect against sunburn and long-term skin damage. The arid climate of this region, categorized as BWh, amplifies UV radiation exposure, making it even more important to stay informed about daily UV levels. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while safeguarding your skin health.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, slowly increasing throughout the morning. By 9:00 AM, it reaches 5, signaling a moderate level of UV exposure. The intensity peaks dramatically around 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, hitting an impressive 11, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the index dips to 9 at 2:00 PM, and continues its decline, resting at 4 by 4:00 PM. The day winds down with values dropping to 1 by 6:00 PM and finally reaching 0 by 7:00 PM, marking the end of UV concerns for the day. Make sure to protect your skin during peak hours, especially between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM!
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits notable seasonal changes, with high-risk months primarily occurring from February to September, where the index peaks at 12 in May. From January to March, the index rises sharply, with February classified as very high and a burn time of just 15 minutes. The most critical months for sun exposure are March through August, all categorized as extreme, allowing only 10 minutes of safe sun exposure before skin damage can occur. As summer transitions into fall, the risk slightly decreases, but September and October remain at very high levels, with burn times of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take precautions during these peak months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours when UV radiation is strongest.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Madha' al Jadidah | 6 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 6 |
| 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 |
| Salalah UVI | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 9 |