Sun Protection in the UAE: The UV Index and What Official Advice Says

Most parts of the UAE recorded a UV index of 12 on 10 August 2022, a level classed as "extreme", according to figures from Weather Online reported by Khaleej Times. Each summer, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) also bans outdoor work under direct sunlight from 12.30pm to 3pm; in 2026 the ban runs from 15 June to 15 September.

How to read the UV index

The UV index measures the strength of the sun's ultraviolet radiation. The World Health Organization groups it into three bands of advice:

UV indexWHO advice 0–2Under normal circumstances no protective measures are needed. 3–7Seek shade during midday hours; wear a shirt, sunscreen and a hat. 8 and aboveAvoid being outside during midday hours; seek shade; shirt, sunscreen and hat are a must.

The WHO says that from level 3 there is an increased risk of skin damage.

Timing your time outdoors

In August 2025, temperatures in the UAE repeatedly passed 50°C; the National Centre of Meteorology recorded 51.8°C in Sweihan, Abu Dhabi, on 1 August (The National). Doctors quoted at the time advised staying indoors where possible between midday and 4pm.

A SEHA dermatology specialist quoted by Khaleej Times in 2022 advised avoiding direct sun from 10am to 4pm, staying in shade, and wearing a wide-brim hat and UV-protective sunglasses. A Tawam Hospital doctor offered a simple rule the same summer: "If your shadow is shorter than you, look for shade."

Sunscreen: what UAE dermatologists say

In June 2026, Gulf News asked three UAE dermatologists how people get sunscreen wrong. Their points:

• Amount: two finger lengths (index and middle) for the face and neck; about 30–35ml, roughly a shot glass, for the whole body.
• Timing: apply 15 to 30 minutes before going out.
• Reapplying: about every two hours; sweating, swimming and exercise shorten that window regardless of SPF.
• SPF: SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays and SPF 50 about 98%. One specialist generally recommends broad-spectrum SPF 50 for daily use in the UAE; another said that applying consistently matters more than the number.
• Children: one specialist suggested about 15 to 17ml of mineral sunscreen for a child's body.

Not just a summer issue

Two dermatologists interviewed by Gulf News in September 2026 noted that UVA is present year-round and crosses window glass much more readily than UVB, so frequent driving adds to exposure. Clouds reduce UV but do not block it, and make-up or moisturiser with SPF should not replace a dedicated sunscreen. They recommend broad-spectrum products, which protect against both UVA and UVB, and one suggested window coverings or UV-protective film to reduce exposure indoors. For regular outdoor exposure, one recommended broad-spectrum SPF 30 or 50; the other advised SPF 50 for several hours outside or outdoor sport.

Before you go out

• Check the day's UV index; at 3 or above, plan for shade, cover and sunscreen.
• Apply enough sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before you leave.
• Reapply about every two hours, and after swimming or heavy sweating.
• Wear a wide-brim hat and UV-protective sunglasses.
• Exercising outdoors? See where to run in Dubai for parks that open at 8am and lit evening tracks.

For general information. Details can change; check with the official source or your doctor before relying on them.