Saudi Arabian desert experiences snowfall for the 'first time ever in history'

By Holly Kintuka, Reporter

The desert was transformed into a 'winter wonderland' (Image: AP)

History has apparently been made in the Saudi Arabian desert.

The region of Al-Jawf, found at the northern edge of the Al-Nafūd desert, has experienced snowfall for what has been reported as the first time ever. 

Footage revealed the usually hot and dry desert transformed by a blanket of what is believed to be snow covering the area.

The change in weather in the desert, which reaches as high as 55C in certain areas, has left citizens shocked, with people getting out of their cars to capture the notable moment.

The Saudi Press Agency reported that the conditions were part of a wider weather pattern, including heavy rainfall, hailstones and even the birth of waterfalls.

It is likely that the sudden shift in temperatures stemmed from a low-pressure system over the Arabian Sea, which colliding with the extreme heat in the region is what led to the hectic storms. 

However, the local authorities say the cold conditions could lead to a vibrant spring, helping the growth of seasonal flowers and plants. 

The region is also one of Saudi Arabia’s most fertile, which makes the hope of a successful spring even more beneficial. 

The weather sparked conversation about climate change (Image: AP)

Users on social media described the weather as “unbelievable” after photos and videos circulated online.

A post on X read: “First time in history Saudi Arabian desert turns into winter wonderland after first-ever snowfall. For the first time in recorded history, Saudi Arabia’s Al-Jawf region experienced snowfall, turning the dry desert into a winter scene.”

But the phenomenon also sparked conversations about the impact of climate change and how it could affect the region in the long term.