UV Index in Mecca, Saudi Arabia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Mecca, Saudi Arabia, understanding the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin from the potentially harmful effects of sun exposure. With the city's BWh climate, the UV levels can soar, especially during peak daylight hours, reaching a staggering UV Index of 13 at noon. This knowledge is vital, as elevated UV levels can quickly lead to sunburn, skin damage, and long-term health risks. By staying informed about the daily UV Index, residents and visitors can take proactive measures to safeguard their skin, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in this vibrant city.

Hourly UV Index in Mecca

The UV Index tells a vivid story of the day’s sun intensity. Starting at 1 at 7:00 AM, the sun gradually awakens, climbing to 3 by 8:00 AM. As the morning progresses, the UV Index skyrockets, peaking at an exhilarating 13 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM—a clear signal to slip on those shades and apply sunscreen! The intensity then begins its descent, dropping to 9 at 2:00 PM, before tapering down through 6 at 3:00 PM and finally resting at 1 by 5:00 PM. As dusk approaches, the UV Index dwindles down to 0 by 7:00 PM, drawing the curtain on a day of warm, radiant rays.

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	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	6	high	25 min
16:00	3	moderate	30 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Mecca

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, peaking between March and August when levels reach an extreme category of 11-13. March, with an index of 11, marks the start of high-risk months, and this trend escalates through April (12) and May (13), where burn times drop to just 10 minutes. The extreme conditions continue in June, July, and August, maintaining an index of 11, before tapering off to September and October, where the UV Index returns to the very high category with values of 10. As winter approaches, the UV Index decreases in November (8) and December (7), offering somewhat safer conditions with longer burn times of 15 and 25 minutes, respectively. Visitors and residents should take precautions during the high-risk months from March to September, utilizing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to minimize exposure and risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Mecca, Saudi Arabia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Mecca 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.

Mecca'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	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