UV Index in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia is crucial for residents and visitors alike, as it plays a significant role in protecting skin health and preventing sunburn. With the city basking in a BWh climate, characterized by hot and arid conditions, UV levels can soar, especially during midday hours when readings peak at an intense 11. Staying informed about UV exposure risks—especially between 10 AM and 2 PM—is essential for ensuring safe outdoor activities and maintaining healthy skin. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the sun in Jeddah while safeguarding your health.

Hourly UV Index in Jeddah

The UV Index for the day has a dynamic curve, starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to a peak of 11 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. This midday surge marks the hours when sun protection is essential, especially as it reaches a critical 10 at 11:00 AM. As the afternoon progresses, the intensity decreases, dropping to 6 by 3:00 PM and further to 2 by 5:00 PM before settling back to a safe 1 by 6:00 PM and fading to 0 by 7:00 PM. For outdoor enthusiasts, the best time to soak up the sun while staying safe is undeniably between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM!

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	2	low	45 min
09:00	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	7	high	25 min
11:00	10	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	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 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