UV Index in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia is crucial for safeguarding your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays, especially in a region characterized by an arid BWh climate. With typical midday UV levels reaching a staggering 12—the highest risk category—being aware of these fluctuations can help you take proactive measures to prevent sunburn and maintain skin health. As Riyadh experiences intense sunlight for most of the year, knowing when the UV Index peaks is essential to enjoy the outdoors safely. Remember, your skin deserves protection; stay informed!

Hourly UV Index in Riyadh

At sunrise, the UV Index begins at a gentle 2 by 07:00, but as the sun rises higher, the intensity quickly escalates. By 09:00, it reaches a moderate 7, signaling outdoor enthusiasts to apply sunscreen. The peak comes at 11:00 and 12:00, where the index peaks at a striking 12, indicating very high levels of UV radiation. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually decreases, dipping to 8 by 14:00 and further dropping to 5 by 15:00. In the late afternoon and evening, the UV Index retreats to 3 by 16:00, finally settling at 1 by 17:00 and fading to 0 after 19:00. This daily cycle highlights the importance of sun safety during those peak 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	2	low	45 min
08:00	4	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	high	25 min
10:00	10	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	8	very high	15 min
15:00	5	moderate	30 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 Riyadh

Throughout the year, UV levels fluctuate significantly, leading to varying risks for sun exposure. High-risk months include February through September, where the UV Index reaches very high to extreme levels, peaking in May and June with an Index of 12 and 11, respectively, offering a burn time of just 10 minutes. As the season transitions into October, the Index begins to decrease but still remains in the very high category at 9. Visitors and residents are advised to take necessary precautions during peak UV months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours. Staying informed and vigilant can significantly reduce the chances of sunburns and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Riyadh 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.

Riyadh'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	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
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