UV Index in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where the sun shines brightly in a BWh climate. Understanding UV levels not only aids in preventing painful sunburns, but also plays a significant role in protecting your skin health over time. With midday UV readings soaring to 11, the potential risks of extended sun exposure are high, making it essential to stay informed about daily UV fluctuations. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy Jeddah's beautiful beaches and vibrant outdoor activities while safeguarding your skin from harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Jeddah

As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it doubles to 2, signaling the sun's increasing intensity. The real surge occurs between 09:00 and 12:00, with values skyrocketing to a peak of 11 at noon. This intense exposure lasts until 13:00 before dipping to 10, then slowly subsiding in the afternoon hours—9 at 14:00, 6 at 15:00, and finally waning to 4 by 16:00. As the evening approaches, the index drops significantly, resting at 2 by 17:00 and fading to a safe 1 before sunset, and ultimately hitting 0 by 19:00. To enjoy the great outdoors while minimizing UV-related risks, it’s best to plan activities during the early and late hours when the UV Index is at its lowest.

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	10	very high	15 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