UV Index in Doha, Qatar

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Doha, Qatar is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health in this sun-soaked city. With its desert climate, Doha experiences high UV levels, especially during peak sunlight hours. Being aware of the UV index helps in preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage, empowering residents and visitors alike to take proactive measures. As the sun rises, so do the UV levels—peaking at 10 around noon—making it essential to stay informed and enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing exposure risks.

Hourly UV Index in Doha

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 2 by 07:00. By 08:00, it escalates to 4, hinting that it’s time to apply some sunscreen. The intensity peaks at 10 around 11:00 and 12:00, making midday the most crucial time for sun protection. After this high, the index gently declines, dropping to 8 at 13:00 and further to 6 by 14:00, suggesting the danger is easing. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels diminish, reaching 4 at 15:00, until they settle down to a mere 1 by 17:00 and 0 by 19:00. Throughout the day, it’s essential to stay vigilant and shield your skin during 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	2	low	45 min
08:00	4	moderate	30 min
09:00	6	high	25 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	10	very high	15 min
12:00	10	very high	15 min
13:00	8	very high	15 min
14:00	6	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Doha

Throughout the year, seasonal UV changes indicate a noticeable rise in sun exposure risks, particularly from February to June, when the UV Index reaches very high to extreme levels. The highest risk months are May and June, both recording an UV Index of 11 with a burn time of just 10 minutes. As summer transitions into fall, there’s a slight decrease in UV levels, but September and October still remain in the very high exposure category. It’s essential for both visitors and residents to stay informed and take precautions during these peak months—apply SPF, wear protective clothing, and seek shade if spending extended periods outdoors, especially during midday hours when UV rays are strongest.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Doha, Qatar

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Doha. 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 Doha, 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 Doha UV Index with Other Qatar Cities

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

Doha's solar exposure compared to other cities in Qatar. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Doha	6	8	10	10	11	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