Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Ash Shafa, Saudi Arabia, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. The region’s BWh climate, characterized by intense sunlight, poses significant UV exposure risks, especially during the peak hours from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM when the index soars to dangerous levels above 11. Understanding these UV levels empowers residents and visitors alike to take essential precautions, ensuring safe enjoyment of the outdoors without compromising skin health. Being informed not only helps in safeguarding against harmful effects but also promotes a more active and enjoyable lifestyle under the sun.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals striking fluctuations, peaking at a blistering 13 at noon. Starting under gentle conditions at 07:00 with a maximum of 1, the UV intensity gradually climbs, hitting 3 by 08:00. As the sun ascends, it reaches 6 at 09:00 and skyrockets to 11 by 11:00, warning sun seekers to take precautions. The pinnacle occurs at 12:00, where a relentless 13 signals the need for protective measures. The index then begins a steady decline, dipping to 12 by 13:00, before descending further to 10 at 14:00, and tapering off to 4 by 16:00. As twilight approaches, the UV levels fall swiftly, reaching a safe 0 by 19:00, reminding us of the sun's fleeting power and the importance of sun safety during those peak hours.
| 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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | 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 |
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.
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 |
| 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 |