UV Index in Ash Shafa, Saudi Arabia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Ash Shafa, Saudi Arabia, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's hot BWh climate often exposing residents to high UV levels, understanding these fluctuations can significantly impact daily outdoor activities. From morning to afternoon, UV Index levels can surge, peaking at 12 around noon—indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about UV levels, residents can take proactive measures to protect themselves and enjoy the sun safely.

Hourly UV Index in Ash Shafa

The UV Index throughout the day presents a striking pattern of intensity. In the early morning, at 7:00 AM, it begins modestly at 1, gradually ramping up to 3 by 8:00 AM. As the sun rises higher, 9:00 AM sees the index soar to 6, reaching a peak of 12 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM—a reminder of the midday sun’s potency. In the afternoon, the value dips from 12 at 1:00 PM down to 9 by 2:00 PM, then further decreases to 6 at 3:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index continues to fall, ending at a minimal 0 by 7:00 PM. Remember to protect your skin during those peak hours when the UV index hits 11 and 12!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Ash Shafa

The UV Index experiences significant variations throughout the year, with the highest levels occurring from March to October, when the index reaches its peak at 14 in May. During these months, particularly in March, April, May, July, and October, the exposure category is classified as extreme, with a dangerously short burn time of just 10 minutes. This indicates that residents and visitors should take extra precautions: seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen regularly. Conversely, from January to February and in November to December, the UV Index falls to very high levels, with a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Still, it's essential to remain vigilant during these months as well. Overall, from March to October, the sun's intensity poses the greatest risk, making it crucial for all to adopt sun safety measures, especially during peak sun hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Ash Shafa, Saudi Arabia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Ash Shafa. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Ash Shafa, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Ash Shafa UV Index with Other Saudi Arabia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Ash Shafa compares to other major locations across Saudi Arabia. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Ash Shafa's solar exposure compared to other cities in Saudi Arabia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Ash Shafa	9	10	13	13	14	12	13	12	12	11	9	8