Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Abu `Arish, Saudi Arabia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's BWh climate, characterized by hot, arid conditions, locals and visitors alike are exposed to significant UV radiation, especially during peak hours. The UV Index can reach a maximum of 11 around midday, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about these levels, residents can take proactive measures to protect their skin and enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a significant variation in solar intensity, peaking during midday. Starting off gently at 1 at 7:00 AM, the index rises to a more moderate 3 by 8:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, 9:00 AM sees a jump to 5, and by 10:00 AM, the intensity surges to 8. The UV Index reaches its climax at 12:00 PM with a striking 11, indicating very high exposure risk. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, with figures of 10 at 1:00 PM and 7 by 2:00 PM. As the sun begins to set, the UV Index drops to 5 at 3:00 PM, and further declines to 3 at 4:00 PM, before returning to a low 1 by 7:00 PM. The day concludes with minimal UV concern, showing a 0 at 8:00 PM. This cycle underscores the importance of sun protection during the peak hours of 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variations, with the highest levels occurring from March to May, when it reaches an extreme level of 12. These months mark the peak risk for skin damage, with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. Following this, June also presents elevated risks, albeit slightly lower at a UV Index of 11. July through September continue to pose high risks with UV Indices of 10, indicating very high exposure, while October to December see a decrease to a UV Index of 8 or 9 but still remain in the high exposure category. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during high-risk months, particularly from March to June, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours.
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 |
| Abu `Arish | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 8 |
| 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 |