Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Sabya, Saudi Arabia, where the climate is characterized by its hot, arid conditions (BWh). With UV levels often peaking around midday, being aware of these fluctuations helps protect against sunburn and contributes to long-term skin health. On a typical sunny day, UV exposure can escalate to a maximum index of 10 at noon, emphasizing the importance of taking preventative measures. By familiarizing yourself with the daily UV Index, you can better enjoy the sun while ensuring your skin remains safe and healthy.
The day's UV Index begins gently at 1 at 7:00 AM, indicating minimal sun exposure risks. As the sun rises higher, the index swiftly escalates, peaking at a striking 10 by 12:00 PM—the conditions are prime for sun lovers! From there, it gracefully declines: 9 at 1:00 PM, 7 at 2:00 PM, and further down to 5 by 3:00 PM. As the sun begins to set, the UV levels drop back to a safe 1 by 5:00 PM, and retreats to a 0 by 7:00 PM. It's a day to relish the sun, but don't forget your sunscreen during those peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 9 | 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 |
Sabya | 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 |