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After 30 Years, Saudi Arabia Receives Snowfall, Transforming The Desert Into A Winter Wonderland

The unusual storm, driven by a cold air mass, transformed desert landscapes and highlighted growing weather extremes across the Middle East.

by Deeplata Garde
After 30 Years, Saudi Arabia Receives Snowfall, Transforming The Desert Into A Winter Wonderland

Shocked by the headline? Well, get ready for more shocking visuals that Gulf residents least expected this week. Parts of Saudi Arabia have been affected by an unusual winter storm and heavy snowfall, wrapping the region in a white blanket. From sharp drops in temperature across northern and central regions to snow in the desert, the kingdom has turned familiar brown landscapes into something out of a postcard. It might just look cold to you, but for Saudi residents, it was a historic and memorable time. 

Snowfall Shocks Saudi Arabia As Rare Winter Storm Sweeps The Region

A powerful cold air mass moved into the region and collided with rain-heavy clouds, triggering a rare mix of snowfall, thunderstorms, and heavy rain, as mentioned in a report by BBC Weather. Areas including Tabuk, Hail, and even Riyadh felt the impact as temperatures dropped far below seasonal norms.

According to BBC Weather, the low-pressure system intensified through Thursday before pushing east toward the United Arab Emirates and Qatar overnight.

In a region more accustomed to dust warnings than snow alerts, the shift felt dramatic.

Snow On The Dunes Leaves Residents In Awe

The most striking scenes came from Saudi Arabia’s northwest.

Snowfall blanketed Jabal Al Lawz, drawing families outdoors in puffer jackets, phones raised, voices filled with disbelief. Adults and children sang, danced, and laughed as snowflakes landed on desert ground, a sight many locals had never seen in their lifetime.

Videos spread quickly online. One clip from captured vast dunes dusted white, a surreal contrast that felt almost unreal. While the others captured camels covered with snow dust. 

Qatar saw some similar weather conditions where thick layers of snow and hail fell under dark, heavy skies.

Drastic Shift In Weather Patterns Across The Gulf

Events like this highlight increasing weather volatility in the Gulf region, known for heat and drought. Scientists have long warned that climate change doesn’t just mean warmer temperatures but is usually accompanied by sharper swings, stronger storms, and weather beyond expectations.

Snowfall in the Arabian desert remains rare, but these extremes are becoming less surprising.

Also Read: CT Quickies: From Oman Botanic Garden Handover To Snowfall In Saudi Arabia, 10 Middle East Updates

Safety Warnings Issued Across the Gulf

Authorities across Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and neighbouring Gulf states moved quickly.

Schools shifted to remote learning in some areas. Travel advisories by airports and airlines are urging travellers to stay indoors instead. Drivers were also alerted to avoid riding due to uncertain weather conditions. Heavy rainfall seems to continue affecting parts of the Gulf, and officials have asked to take caution due to unstable weather.

But despite the danger that follows, it’s impossible to ignore the fact that the Arabian desert turned into a bewitching snowy wonderland.

Cover Image Courtesy: UFI/X

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First Published: December 23, 2025 6:53 PM