Riyadh Records “Very Unhealthy” Air Levels, According to Global Index
A global index shows air quality in Riyadh falls to ‘very unhealthy’ levels, with dust and fine particles affecting visibility, health, and daily movement.
Riyadh’s air slipped into the “Very Unhealthy” bracket on a widely followed global pollution index, placing the city among the day’s worst performers for fine particles. People across the capital reported the usual signs, gritty air, dull skies, and that throat-dry feeling that shows up fast. It is the kind of morning that makes outdoor plans feel like extra effort, especially for runners, school kids, and delivery riders.
What the Latest Readings Mean for Residents and Commuters
“Very Unhealthy” on the AQI scale usually points to elevated PM2.5 levels, the tiny particles linked with breathing discomfort, especially for children, older adults, and anyone with asthma. The global ranking that flagged Riyadh reflects hourly comparisons across major cities and can swing quickly when dust and winds spike. Some commuters also noticed reduced visibility on main roads, and many switched to indoor gyms.
Dust activity adds pressure on already hazy days
Saudi Arabia’s dust conditions have also been tracked by official regional monitoring, including updates shared publicly on X. One post mapping dust events across the Kingdom and the region is here.
