Riyadh: Parts of Saudi Arabia experienced a rare and striking weather phenomenon, with snowfall reported in several regions, transforming familiar desert landscapes into scenes more commonly associated with winter destinations.
Videos and photographs shared widely on social media showed snow covering rocky terrain and open desert areas, drawing astonishment from residents as temperatures dropped sharply. The unusual conditions prompted widespread online discussion, with many users describing the scenes as surreal and historic.
Meteorological authorities stated that the snowfall was associated with a strong cold air mass moving across the region, resulting in significantly lower temperatures and unstable weather conditions. While parts of Saudi Arabia experience cooler weather during winter months, snowfall remains an infrequent occurrence, particularly outside mountainous areas.
Residents in affected regions reported icy winds and near-freezing temperatures, a sharp contrast to the country’s typically warm climate. Schools and businesses in some areas monitored conditions closely, while authorities urged the public to exercise caution on roads due to slippery surfaces and reduced visibility.
“This is something we don’t see often,” one resident said in a video circulating online. “The landscape looks completely different – it feels like another country.”
Saudi Arabia has recorded snowfall on rare occasions in recent years, particularly in elevated areas such as Tabuk and the northern regions, but widespread attention is often drawn due to the dramatic contrast between snow and desert terrain. Weather experts note that such events, while unusual, are not unprecedented during periods of extreme atmospheric instability.
Officials advised residents to stay informed through official weather updates and to avoid unnecessary travel in affected areas. Drivers were urged to remain cautious, particularly in mountainous or open regions where ice formation may occur overnight.
The snowfall comes amid broader discussions about shifting weather patterns across the Middle East, with scientists observing increased variability in temperature and precipitation in recent years. While a single event does not indicate long-term climate change, experts say it highlights the region’s exposure to sudden and extreme weather fluctuations.
As temperatures gradually stabilise, the snow is expected to melt within hours or days. For many residents, however, the brief transformation offered a rare moment of wonder – a reminder of nature’s ability to surprise, even in the heart of the desert.
