UV Index in Dakhla, Western Sahara

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Dakhla, Western Sahara, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Understanding UV levels is essential not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for maintaining long-term skin health. With a BWh climate, Dakhla experiences intense sunlight, especially during peak hours when the UV Index can soar to a maximum of 12. This highlights the importance of taking proactive measures to safeguard your skin during outdoor activities, ensuring you enjoy the beauty of this stunning region without compromising your well-being.

Hourly UV Index in Dakhla

As the day unfolds, the UV Index begins at a meager 0 at 7:00 AM, but quickly climbs to 12 by 1:00 PM, reaching its peak intensity of 12 between 1:00 and 3:00 PM. This powerful radiation underscores the importance of sun protection during these hours. Be cautious: at high noon, it soars to 9, ensuring that unless you're covered in sunscreen, you're at risk. By 4:00 PM, the UV levels gradually dip back to 6, and as day turns to dusk, it settles at a gentle 2 by 7:00 PM, making all the difference for those soaking in the evening sun. Remember, from noon to 3 PM, it's wise to seek shade and protect your skin!

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	0	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	2	low	45 min
10:00	3	moderate	30 min
11:00	6	high	25 min
12:00	9	very high	15 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	12	extreme	10 min
15:00	12	extreme	10 min
16:00	9	very high	15 min
17:00	6	high	25 min
18:00	3	moderate	30 min
19:00	2	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Dakhla

The seasonal UV changes indicate a significant increase in sun exposure from January through May, with the UV Index peaking at 13 in May, marking it as one of the highest risk months alongside March and April, both with an index of 11-12. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during these high-risk months (March to May), including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday when burn times are as short as 10 minutes. As summer progresses into fall, the UV Index slightly decreases, but caution is still warranted through October and November, where burn times remain relatively brief at 15 minutes. In winter months like January and December, the UV Index drops to 7, suggesting a low to moderate risk, although protection is still necessary due to potential reflective UV rays from snow.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Dakhla, Western Sahara

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Dakhla. 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 Dakhla, 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 Dakhla UV Index with Other Western Sahara Cities

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

Dakhla's solar exposure compared to other cities in Western Sahara. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Laayoune Plage UVI	6	7	10	11	12	12	11	11	11	9	7	6
Daoura UVI	6	7	10	11	12	12	11	11	11	9	7	6
Laayoune UVI	6	7	10	11	12	13	11	11	11	9	7	6
Dakhla	7	8	11	12	13	12	11	11	11	10	8	7