UV Index in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. As one of the sunniest cities in the world, Abu Dhabi experiences high UV levels, particularly from late morning to early afternoon when the index can reach a staggering 12. This intense exposure poses increased risks for skin damage and long-term health issues. By staying informed about daily UV readings, residents and visitors can take proactive steps to protect themselves, ensuring enjoyable outdoor activities while minimizing the risk of harmful effects from the sun.

Hourly UV Index in Abu Dhabi

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts low at 1 at 07:00, gradually gaining momentum. By 08:00, it climbs to 3, signaling a gentle increase in solar intensity. The real heat hits by 10:00, where it peaks at 8, and reaches its zenith at 12:00 with a striking 12—a strong reminder to seek shade and reapply sunscreen. The afternoon maintains high levels of UV exposure but begins to wane by 15:00, dropping to 6. As the day winds down, the index gracefully descends, hitting 2 by 17:00 and returning to a tranquil 1 at 18:00, finishing the day at 0 by 19:00. This data highlights the critical times for sun protection, especially from 11:00 to 14:00, when UV rays are at their most intense.

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	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	6	high	25 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Abu Dhabi

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with high-risk months extending from February to August, peaking in April and July with an extreme exposure category and burn times as low as 10 minutes. Notably, March also presents a very high UV Index of 10. During these months, visitors and residents should exercise caution by minimizing sun exposure, particularly during peak hours, and utilizing sun protection measures such as sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing. September to October remain very high, so protective precautions should still be maintained as summer transitions to fall. With the UV Index returning to high levels in November and December, it's important to stay vigilant even in cooler months.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Abu Dhabi. 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 Abu Dhabi, 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 Abu Dhabi UV Index with Other United Arab Emirates Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Abu Dhabi compares to other major locations across United Arab Emirates. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Abu Dhabi's solar exposure compared to other cities in United Arab Emirates. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Dubai UVI	6	7	11	11	12	11	10	11	10	8	6	5
Ajman City UVI	6	7	10	11	12	11	11	10	10	8	6	5
Abu Dhabi	6	8	10	11	12	11	12	10	10	9	7	6
Ras Al Khaimah City UVI	6	8	11	11	12	11	11	11	10	8	7	5
Sharjah UVI	6	8	11	11	12	11	11	11	10	9	7	5