UV Index in Medina, Saudi Arabia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Medina, Saudi Arabia, where the sun shines fiercely in the BWh climate zone. High UV levels, particularly during the midday hours, can lead to sunburn and long-term skin health issues if you're unprepared. With UV Index readings peaking at a scorching 12 between noon and 1 PM, awareness of the UV levels can help you take the necessary precautions to protect your skin. Whether you're exploring the city's rich history or simply enjoying the outdoors, gauging UV exposure is key to maintaining your well-being under the intense sun.

Hourly UV Index in Medina

During the morning hours, the UV Index starts off low at 1 at 7:00 AM, indicating minimal risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the day progresses, the intensity ramps up, peaking at 12 around 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, suggesting a high risk for harm, especially for those spending extended periods outdoors. Post-peak, the index gradually declines, dropping to 7 at 3:00 PM and further down to 1 by 7:00 PM, which indicates a return to minimal risk as the sun sets. For sun enthusiasts, midday offers the most intense UV radiation, making sun protection essential during those hours!

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	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Medina

Throughout the year, UV levels undergo significant changes, with the most intense exposure occurring from March to September. This period features extreme UV Index levels of 11 to 12, where the recommended burn time can be as low as 10 minutes. The highest risk months for UV exposure are March, April, May, June, July, and August, necessitating extra precautions. Residents and visitors should take proactive measures during these months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen to minimize the risk of skin damage. As the UV Index starts to decline in October and November, it remains important to stay vigilant, although the burn time increases to 15 minutes. By December, while UV levels drop further, people should still be mindful as the UV Index remains at a high level of 6.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Medina, Saudi Arabia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Medina 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.

Medina'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 UVI	8	9	11	12	13	11	11	11	10	10	8	6
Medina	7	9	11	12	12	12	12	11	11	9	8	6
Sultanah UVI	7	9	11	12	12	12	12	11	11	9	8	6