Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Dubai, United Arab Emirates is crucial for safeguarding your skin against the sun’s harmful rays. With peak UV levels reaching 11 during the midday hours, awareness of these readings is essential in preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. The arid BWh climate of Dubai means intense sunlight year-round, making it imperative for residents and visitors alike to stay informed about UV exposure risks. By monitoring the UV Index, you can enjoy the vibrant outdoor lifestyle of Dubai while protecting your skin from damage.
The UV Index today follows a dynamic trajectory, peaking dramatically as the sun climbs. Starting at a modest 1 at 07:00, it rises to 3 by 08:00 and then continues its ascent, reaching 5 by 09:00. The intensity escalates further, peaking at an impressive 11 at 12:00—a time when sun protection is crucial. As the afternoon wears on, the index moderately descends, dropping to 10 by 13:00 and gradually decreasing to 6 at 15:00. By 16:00, it falls to 4, before tapering off to 1 by 18:00 and remaining constant until 19:00. This hourly breakdown highlights the importance of being sun-smart during peak hours, especially when the index is at its highest!
| 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 | 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index fluctuates significantly, with peak levels observed during the spring and summer months. Notably, March to August sees the highest UV exposure, with values reaching a maximum of 12 in May, categorized as extreme, indicating a very short burn time of just 10 minutes. The months of March, April, May, June, and August are particularly high-risk, warranting extra caution for both visitors and residents. As a general guideline, it's crucial to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen regularly, especially during these high UV months. In contrast, the late fall and winter months, from November to February, exhibit lower UV levels, with indices ranging from 5 to 7, categorized as moderate to high, allowing for slightly longer safe exposure times. Regardless of the month, staying informed about UV levels is essential for maintaining skin health year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai | 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 UVI | 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 |