Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Al Qatif, Saudi Arabia, staying aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's BWh climate, residents and visitors alike experience high UV exposure, especially during peak hours when the index can reach a maximum of 12 around midday. Understanding these UV levels empowers you to take proactive steps in protecting your skin from harmful rays, ensuring enjoyable outdoor experiences while minimizing the risk of long-term damage. Stay informed and safeguard your health in this vibrant locale!
At sunrise, the UV Index starts low at 2 around 7:00 AM, but as the sun climbs higher, it begins to rise sharply. By 10:00 AM, the index reaches a moderate 10, peaking at an intense 12 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM—the time to stay vigilant and protect your skin! As the afternoon progresses, the levels gradually decline; by 3:00 PM, it drops to 4 and continues to wane to 1 by 5:00 PM, signaling a return to safer sun exposure. By the evening, the index finally falls to 0 after 7:00 PM, marking the end of a day with significant sun intensity. Stay aware and enjoy the sun safely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | 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, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest risk months typically occurring from February to June. During these months, the UV Index reaches extreme levels, particularly peaking at 12 in May and 11 in June, indicating a burn time as short as 10 minutes for unprotected skin. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, especially in March and April when the UV Index remains at 10. As the year progresses, the UV Index gradually decreases, with November and December presenting lower risks, marked by a return to high and moderate exposure categories, respectively. It's crucial to stay informed and adjust sun safety practices throughout these seasonal changes to minimize the risk of UV-related harm.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al Qatif | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 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 |