Last updated: July 2, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Al Ghuwayriyah, Qatar, where the climate is characterized by hot desert conditions (BWh). Understanding the levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation can significantly impact your health by helping to prevent sunburns and long-term skin damage. Throughout the day, especially during peak hours between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, UV levels can reach as high as 10, posing serious risks for overexposure. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the sunny outdoor lifestyle of Al Ghuwayriyah while protecting your skin and overall health.
The UV Index today showcases a dramatic ascent as the sun rises. Starting at a mild 2 at 07:00, the intensity climbs steadily to 4 by 08:00. However, the real peak arrives between 11:00 and 12:00, where it hits a striking 10, indicating the highest risk for unprotected skin. After this zenith, the index gently descends, falling to 9 at 13:00 and tapering down to 4 by 15:00. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index drops further to 2 at 16:00 and ends the day at a safe 0 by 19:00. It's a clear reminder to embrace sun safety during those peak hours when the UV exposure is at its strongest!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | 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 experiences significant seasonal changes, peaking during late spring and summer. The highest-risk months for UV exposure are March through June, with the index reaching extreme levels of 11 and 12, resulting in a burn time as short as 10 minutes. July and August remain high-risk months with a UV index of 10 (very high), while September to October sees a slight decrease but still poses risks with levels around 8 to 10. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during these months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to avoid skin damage. In contrast, the winter months of December and January present lower UV risks, with a moderate index allowing for longer burn times. However, it's essential to remain vigilant about UV exposure year-round, especially during activities at higher altitudes or reflective surfaces like snow.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al Khawr UVI | 6 | 8 | 11 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 |
| Umm Salal Muhammad UVI | 6 | 8 | 11 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 |
| Al Wakrah UVI | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 |
| Ar Rayyan UVI | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 |
| Doha UVI | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 |
| Al Ghuwayriyah | 6 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 5 |