This week, the Gulf region has witnessed an array of extreme weather conditions, culminating in a rare snowfall in Saudi Arabia. Following an intense hailstorm in the UAE and severe rains in Oman—which prompted the declaration of a national holiday due to flooding—Saudi Arabia has now reported snow covering its mountainous regions on Thursday.
On February 15, the mercury plummeted in Saudi Arabia, with heavy rains battering the mountains of Jabal Al Lawz, eventually giving way to a light snowfall. This unusual weather event has captured the attention of residents and tourists alike, with many taking to social media to share images of the snow-draped landscapes.
The Tabuk region, where the snowfall was observed, is accustomed to such chilly weather phenomena and frequently attracts visitors eager to experience snow in the desert. Situated at an altitude of 2,600 metres and known for its almond bushes, the area provides a unique winter getaway within the desert kingdom.
The Saudi Press Agency has also forecasted “moderate to heavy thunderstorms” in several other regions, including Al-Baha, Makkah, Al-Qassim, Riyadh, and Sharqiya, as well as in Madinah, Tabuk, Al Jawf, the northern border, and the eastern region, indicating a continuation of the week’s severe weather patterns.