In Saudi Arabia the sun is strong for most of the year, and reflections off sand, roads and glass add even more glare. That makes sunglasses far more than an accessory. Dark lenses without UV protection can be worse than wearing nothing, because they widen your pupils and let more harmful rays in.
- The first thing to check is UV400, not the lens colour or how dark it is.
- Polarised lenses are best for glare, daytime driving and the beach.
- Category 2 or 3 suits the Saudi sun; category 4 is not safe for driving.
- Never leave your sunglasses in the car in summer; heat damages frames and lens coatings.
UV400: The First Thing to Check
UV400 means the lens blocks ultraviolet light up to a wavelength of 400 nanometres, which covers almost all UVA and UVB rays. This is the protection that matters for your long-term eye health, and it has nothing to do with the lens colour or how dark it is.
Polarised or Standard Lenses?
A polarised lens has a filter that cuts glare reflected off flat surfaces such as asphalt, water and car windscreens, so your vision feels smoother and your eyes work less.
| Polarised | Standard with UV400 | |
|---|---|---|
| Glare reduction | Excellent | Moderate |
| Daytime driving | Very comfortable | Good |
| Beach and desert | Best | Good |
| Phone and car screens | May look dark at some angles | Clear |
| UV protection | Yes, if UV400 | Yes, if UV400 |
Lens Colour and Tint Category
Tint is measured in categories from 0 to 4. Most everyday sunglasses are category 2 or 3, which suit the Saudi sun. Category 4 is very dark and made for open desert and mountains, and is not suitable for driving.
Saint Laurent Gold
Blue Beat Gold
Safilo Black
Sixty BlackTips for the Saudi Climate
- Choose a frame with good coverage: wider, slightly wrapped frames keep light and dust out from the sides.
- Don't leave them in the car: summer heat inside a car can warp the frame and damage lens coatings.
- Clean them properly: rinse with water first to remove dust, then wipe with a microfibre cloth. Dry-wiping over dust causes scratches.
- Need prescription glasses? We can fit sun lenses with your prescription, or add a magnetic clip-on over your glasses.
Browse all sunglasses, and for children read our kids' glasses guide.
FAQs
Do children need sunglasses?
Yes. Children's eyes are more sensitive to UV light. Choose a flexible, durable frame with a UV400 lens.
Do more expensive sunglasses protect better?
Not necessarily. Protection comes from the lens specification; the price usually reflects frame quality, brand and lens clarity.
How do I know if my sunglasses have UV400?
Look for the marking on the arm or label, or visit any Barakat Optical branch and we'll check them for you.
Can you make prescription sunglasses?
Yes. After a free eye test at any branch, we fit sun lenses with your prescription.
Our opticians help you choose the right sunglasses, trusted in Saudi Arabia since 1980.
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