Rare Snowfall Turns Parts of Saudi Arabia White / Image: @suadigazette
On December 18, the northern landscape of Saudi Arabia traded its iconic golden hues for a shimmering coat of white. The Tabuk region, specifically the majestic Jabal Al-Lawz (which translates to “Almond Mountain”), became the center of global attention as a rare and heavy snowfall blanketed its peaks. Standing at 2,580 meters above sea level, the mountain was transformed into a scene more reminiscent of the Swiss Alps than the Arabian Peninsula.
Snowfall grips northern Saudi Arabia
In a dramatic weather event this week, parts of northern Saudi Arabia were covered in snow, a sight that stunned locals and people around the world. Snow settled on rugged mountain slopes, high desert plains and even large brown dunes on December 18, transforming the normally dry landscape into a winter scene.This snowfall came as a strong cold air mass moved into the region, pushing temperatures well below freezing in some areas and triggering heavy rain elsewhere. In certain places, temperatures dipped to around minus 4°C (24.8°F), a marked contrast to the Kingdom’s typical desert climate.Residents wearing warm jackets were seen outdoors playing in the snow, praising the moment, while camels and vehicles crossed snow-covered stretches, scenes shared widely on social media.
Where did it snow?
Snow was most prominent in highland and northern regions that are occasionally touched by winter systems:
- Jabal Al Lawz (Tabuk Province): The mountainous area saw thick snow cover, with winds and fog adding to the dramatic scene.
- Trojena Highlands and Tabuk region: Snow fell on rugged terrain typically unaccustomed to winter weather.
- Hail Region: Local reports noted snowfall here, a rare occurrence after decades without significant snow.
- Al-Ghat (north of Riyadh) and northern Riyadh and Al-Qassim were also forecast by meteorologists to see snow or icy conditions during this event.
Meteorologists say snow in these parts isn’t entirely unheard of, especially at higher elevations between December and February, though it remains uncommon elsewhere in the country.
The world reacts
As videos and photos of snow in Saudi Arabia spread rapidly online, many internet users were amazed, and some even questioned whether the scenes were artificially generated by AI tools. Footage showing white-blanketed deserts and dunes set against dramatic skies left viewers debating whether it was real snowfall or digitally altered content. However, verified reports and meteorological data confirm the snowfall is genuine, driven by a strong cold weather system affecting the region. The contrast of snow against a backdrop known worldwide for scorching heat added to the disbelief and excitement, making #JabalAlLawz and related terms trend on social platforms.
Safety, and weather alerts
Saudi Arabia’s National Centre for Meteorology issued weather alerts ahead of the event, warning people of possible snowfall, hail, strong winds and flash flooding in some regions. Authorities emphasized that while snow can be magical, it also brings risks like icy roads and reduced visibility, urging residents and travelers to follow safety guidance.Experts note that these conditions are caused by low-pressure weather systems sweeping across the Middle East, bringing moisture and cold air together, a setup that occasionally produces snow in highland desert zones. Go to Source
