UV Index in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health in this sun-soaked coastal city. With a BWh climate, Jeddah experiences high UV levels, peaking at a staggering 13 around noon, which can lead to serious risks like sunburn and long-term skin damage. By staying informed about UV exposure, residents and visitors can take proactive measures to shield themselves from harmful rays and enjoy outdoor activities safely. Whether you're lounging on the beach or exploring the vibrant city, knowing the UV Index helps you plan your day wisely and keep your skin healthy and safe.

Hourly UV Index in Jeddah

The UV Index data paints a vivid picture of solar intensity throughout the day. Starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, the index climbs steadily, reaching a notable 3 at 08:00. By 09:00, it escalates to 5, signaling a prominent rise in ultraviolet exposure. The sun peaks at 11:00 with a striking 11, bursting into its strongest phase, and continues to flare at 12:00 with a max of 13 before gradually tapering off. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels decrease to 10 at 14:00, followed by a decline to 6 at 15:00, and further to 4 by 16:00, demonstrating the sun's retreat. The index softens to 2 at 17:00 and gently drops to 1 by 18:00, finally resting at a negligible 0 by 19:00. This hour-by-hour journey underscores the importance of sun safety, particularly during the midday hours when UV rays are most intense.

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	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	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	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 Jeddah

Throughout the year, the UV Index varies significantly, marking distinct seasonal changes in sun exposure risks. The high-risk months extend from March to September, peaking in May with an UV Index of 13, categorized as extreme, requiring limited sun exposure of just 10 minutes to avoid burns.** January and February** also present hazards with a very high index of 8 and 9, respectively, where a burn can occur in 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are** strongly advised** to take preventive measures during these periods, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to mitigate the risks associated with high UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Jeddah. 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 Jeddah, 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 Jeddah UV Index with Other Saudi Arabia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Jeddah 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.

Jeddah'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	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