Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Al Mindak, Saudi Arabia, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a key role in reducing the risk of skin diseases. With a BWh climate characterized by intense sun exposure, particularly during peak hours (11:00 AM to 1:00 PM), the UV Index can soar to levels as high as 12, signaling extreme risk. By staying informed about UV levels, you can enjoy the beautiful Saudi landscape while effectively protecting your skin.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it jumps to 3, signaling the need for sun protection. The intensity peaks around 11:00 AM with a concerning 11, followed by the highest reading of 12 at noon, making it critical to seek shade or slather on sunscreen. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, with levels dropping to 9 at 2:00 PM and then 6 by 3:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV levels descend further, with readings of 3 at 4:00 PM, 2 at 5:00 PM, and finally settling back to 1 by 6:00 PM, before fading into 0 as night takes over at 7:00 PM. Embrace the sunshine wisely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | 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, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with the highest risk of UV exposure occurring from March to October. These months consistently show extreme levels, peaking in March, April, and May with an index of 13, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should particularly note that from March through September, the UV Index remains primarily in the extreme category, making it critical to protect skin with sunscreen, clothing, and shade. High-risk months include February, when the index reaches 10, and significantly during the interval of March to May, where protective measures are essential. As winter and fall approach, the UV levels drop to very high in January, February, November, and December, allowing for a burn time of up to 15 minutes but still necessitating caution. To ensure safety, everyone is advised to check the daily UV Index and take appropriate precautions, especially during these high UV months.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Riyadh UVI | 7 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 6 |
| Mecca UVI | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 7 |
| Jeddah UVI | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 |
| Sultanah UVI | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 6 |
| Medina UVI | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 6 |
| Al Mindak | 9 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 8 |