UV Index in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where the sun shines fiercely in a BWh climate. Awareness of UV levels helps prevent painful sunburns and protects long-term skin health, making it essential for outdoor activities. With peak UV Index values reaching 10 during the midday hours, the risks of overexposure are significant. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful Saudi sunshine while safeguarding your skin against harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Riyadh

The UV Index today begins with a gentle rise at 07:00 with a level of 2, gradually increasing throughout the morning. By 09:00, the index reaches 6, but it truly peaks at 11:00 and 12:00, boasting a robust 10—a sign to seek shade or wear protective gear. As the afternoon unfolds, the index starts to decline: 13:00 sees a slight drop to 9, followed by 7 at 14:00. The intensity continues to wane, with readings of 5 at 15:00 and 3 by 16:00. As the sun sets, the index decreases to 1 by 17:00 and remains minimal until 19:00, where it finally dips to 0. Be sun-safe during the peak hours to enjoy a healthy day outdoors!

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	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	6	high	25 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	10	very high	15 min
12:00	10	very high	15 min
13:00	9	very high	15 min
14:00	7	high	25 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