Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Al Bukayriyah, Saudi Arabia is crucial for anyone looking to enjoy the sun safely. With its BWh climate characterized by hot, dry summers, residents and visitors alike face heightened risks of UV exposure, especially during the peak hours between 10 AM and 2 PM, when the UV levels soar to a maximum of 11. Awareness of these levels is essential not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for maintaining long-term skin health. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to shield yourself from harmful rays, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable outdoor experience amid the beautiful landscapes of Al Bukayriyah.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises sharply, peaking between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM at an intense 11, signaling the need for sun protection. Early morning hours start relatively low, with values of 2 at 7:00 AM and escalating to a moderate 3 by 8:00 AM. The index then surges, hitting 6 by 9:00 AM and soaring to 9 at 10:00 AM. After reaching its zenith, the UV exposure begins to decline in the afternoon, tapering to 8 at 2:00 PM, followed by a gentle descent from 6 at 3:00 PM to 1 by 6:00 PM. Finally, the UV Index dips to a safe 0 at 7:00 PM, as the sun sets and the risk of UV radiation diminishes. Stay protected during the peak hours to enjoy the sun safely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | 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 |
As the seasons change, so do the levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which reach their peak during the summer months. January begins with a UV Index of 7 (high), which increases to a very high index of 8 in February and reaches an extreme level of 12 in May and June. The high-risk months for excessive solar exposure are May through August, where the burn time is notably reduced to just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution during these months, seeking shade and applying sunscreen frequently. September and October see a slight decrease, but remain in the very high category before levels settle to moderate by December. Therefore, it's essential to stay vigilant and protect your skin, especially from late spring through summer.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al Bukayriyah | 7 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |
| 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 |