UV Index in Shibam, Yemen

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and travelers in Shibam, Yemen, where the intense desert climate leads to significant sun exposure. With peak UV levels often reaching a staggering 13 during midday hours, being aware of these values is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. Whether you're exploring the stunning architecture or enjoying outdoor activities, knowing the UV Index can help you make informed decisions about sun protection. Stay safe and enjoy the unique beauty of Shibam while safeguarding your skin from harmful UV rays!

Hourly UV Index in Shibam

As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises dramatically, peaking at 13 around 12:00 PM, signaling a maximum level of sun intensity. Early morning hours start off mild, with a low of 1 at 07:00 and climbing steadily to 6 by 09:00. The sun reaches its zenith at 11:00, with a value of 12, before gradually declining through the afternoon. By 15:00, the index drops to 6, further falling to 3 by 16:00 and finally returning to a safe 1 by 17:00. As twilight approaches, the index settles to 0 after 19:00, providing a serene close to the day. Remember to protect your skin during the peak hours from 10 AM to 2 PM, when the sun's rays are most potent!

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	6	high	25 min
10:00	10	very high	15 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	6	high	25 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 Shibam

Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently high, classified as extreme from January to October, with burn times of just 10 minutes across all months except December, which has a slightly lower index of 10 (very high) with a 15-minute burn time. The highest UV levels occur in March and April (both at 16), marking these as high-risk months for sun exposure. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures during these times, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade whenever possible to reduce the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Shibam, Yemen

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

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

Shibam's solar exposure compared to other cities in Yemen. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Al Hudaydah UVI	9	10	11	13	12	10	9	9	9	9	8	8
Aden UVI	10	11	13	14	13	10	11	12	10	10	9	9
Taiz UVI	10	12	13	14	13	10	12	12	11	11	10	9
Mukalla UVI	11	12	13	14	14	12	12	12	12	11	10	9
Sanaa UVI	12	13	15	16	15	14	13	13	14	13	11	10
Shibam	12	13	16	16	15	14	13	14	14	13	12	10