Last updated: June 2, 2025
In the heart of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for both residents and visitors alike. As the region falls under the BWh climate zone, the sun’s rays can be intensely potent, especially during peak hours. The UV Index can soar to dangerous levels, peaking at 11 around midday, underscoring the need for awareness to prevent sunburn and protect skin health. By staying informed about daily UV levels, you can take essential precautions to safeguard yourself against harmful exposure, ensuring that your time in this sacred city is not only spiritually enriching but also safe under the sun.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to a moderate 3, signaling the approach of midday intensity. The peak is reached at 12:00 PM with a notable 11, indicating the need for sun protection. Throughout the afternoon, the index gradually declines: 10 at 1:00 PM and 8 by 2:00 PM, before tapering off to 6 at 3:00 PM. As the sun begins its descent, the UV Index drops significantly to 3 by 4:00 PM, then gently fades to 2 at 5:00 PM. By 6:00 PM, it settles at 1 and finally reaches 0 as evening approaches at 7:00 PM. This data exemplifies the importance of sun safety during the peak hours of 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM when UV exposure is at its highest. Stay protected and enjoy the sunshine!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | 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 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.
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 | 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 |