Rare snowfall in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, desert covered in white snow

Rare snowfall has occurred in some areas of Saudi Arabia and Qatar, as seen in videos circulating on social media. The highlands, roadsides, mountain peaks and sand dunes of the desert were suddenly covered in white snow. Local residents are standing in the snow, dancing, playing and enjoying the scenery.

Dubai-based media outlet Khaleej Times reported that sparkling white snow fell from the sky in some areas of Saudi Arabia and Qatar on December 18. Locals enjoyed the snowfall in the Jabal Al Lawz area in northwestern Saudi Arabia. Children and young people expressed their joy by playing in the snow.

Snow also fell on the same day in the central regions of Saudi Arabia, Al-Majmah and Al-Ghat. The country's National Meteorological Center said that the mountainous and flat areas there have been snowfalls due to changes in weather conditions. Experts say that while snowfall is common in some parts of Saudi Arabia during winter, it is not widespread everywhere.

Much of the 11,581 square kilometer area of ​​neighboring Qatar is usually sandy. The snowfall there has created a rare scene. Local residents are stopping their cars to touch the snow and taking videos.

Residents in the United Arab Emirates have also expressed surprise at the sight. Meteorologists say that specific geographical and climatic conditions are required for snowfall to occur. Although the chances of snow accumulation in the Emirates are low, winter rain and hail are giving it a somewhat snowy feel.

As the rare event spread on social media, people around the world are watching and enjoying the sight of snowfall in the desert as very strange and pleasant.