Owing to its topography, Saudi Arabia experiences considerable snowfall promoting tourism in winters. The snowfall in Saudi Arabia provides the opportunity to ride Arabian camels and explore the country’s mesmerizing landscapes covered in fresh white snow. One can also indulge in hiking or snow sledding during the winter season. Travelers can also enjoy the snowfall in Saudi Arabia 2022 while driving along the mountainous roads. Hence, snowfall areas in Saudi Arabia offer an enchanting and memorable experience to the visitors.
Places to experience snowfall in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is home to some of the best regions, wherein travelers can experience winter tourism at its best. Although snow is usually considered to be rare in the kingdom, some cities typically become a wonderland in winters. Mentioned below are the 6 must-visit snowfall places in Saudi Arabia during the winter season (usually in December and January):
1. Abha Snowfall – The most beautiful hill station in Saudi Arabia
Abha is based in the beautiful Asir mountains on the south-western side of the country. It is the capital city of the Asir region. Though snowfall in Abha is somewhat rare, the city is a sight to behold whenever it happens. Abha is home to hilltop fortresses and popular tourist attractions, like Shadda Palace, the Al-Tahy restaurant, Abha Great Mosque, Abha Palace Hotel, and Lake Sadd. Snowfall in Abha makes the city looked absolutely captivating and attracts tourists, especially from the neighboring cities.
How to reach Abha: Abha International Airport connects the city with other regions in Saudi Arabia and globally, making it easier for travelers to reach Abha.
Average temperature in Abha: Like most Saudi Arabian cities, December to February is the winter season in Abha. During the winter season, the average maximum temperature is 21°C, while the minimum is 12°C.
Winter activities in Abha: Winter is a lovely season in Abha as this is when the city hosts diverse festivals, exhibitions, shows, sporting events, and musical performances. In the later half of February, it hosts the Nejnaj festival to celebrate the traditional garments and taste of Saudi Arabia. There are some exciting snow activities for children as well as adults. Also, one must taste the seasonal delicacies of Fattah and Asida.
If planning a stay, Abha Palace Hotel, Blue Inn Boutique, Golden Abha, Sarwat Park Hotel, and Beautat Hotel are among the best hotels in Abha for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Overall, the hill-station has a wide range of accommodation options. Popular restaurants to experience food options in Abha are Soho Square, Broccoli Pizza & Pasta, India Nights Restaurant, N Lounge, and Nahran Restaurant.
Suggested Read: 10 Best Places To Visit In Abha: Shada Palace, Shamsan Fort And More
2. Tabuk Snowfall – With majestic places to explore in snowfall
The enchanting city of Tabuk is located in the north-western part of the Kingdom, which makes it relatively closer to the border between Jordan and Saudi Arabia. It is known for being home to the most extensive air force base in the country. At the same time, it is a must-visit winter destination, boasting several archeological sites, forts, and palaces. Each year, a mild snowfall in Tabuk Saudi Arabia occurs during the month of December due to its close proximity to Jabal al-Lawz mountain peaks. Tourists flock to the city to experience these snow-covered peaks offering a wondrous sight.
How to reach Tabuk: Tabuk is served by Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz International Airport. Therefore, tourists can easily book a flight to the airport and reach Tabuk conveniently.
Average temperature in Tabuk: The winter season in Tabuk starts from the end of November to mid of February. During this season, the maximum temperature ranges between 18 and 20°C, while the minimum hovers between 3 and 10°C.
Winter activities in Tabuk: Hiking and sledding are popular activities for those seeking adventure in Saudi during winters. Besides, Tantora international festival it quite an attraction. It is celebrated from December to February in Al Ula near Tabuk, and features drone light shows, musical events, and hot air balloon rides. Also, tourists should not miss the winter delicacies, including oats soup, aseedah, jareesh, and abu farwa.
If planning a stay, Tabuk has a range of hotels to ensure a comfortable and relaxed stay for tourists. Some of the best hotels in the city include Hilton Garden Inn Tabuk, Grand Millennium Tabuk, and Swiss Inn Tabuk Hotel. To relish authentic Arabian cuisine and street food of Tabuk, one must eat at city’s famous eating joints, including Fares’ Steakhouse, Western Road Steak & Grill, Hala Hotel, NY Smoked steak restaurant, and Cafe and Western Road Express.
3. Turaif Snowfall – For memorable winter activities
Located in Northern Borders Province, the city of Turaif is close to Jordan. Turaif is known to record some of the lowest temperatures in the Arabic region. At one time, it also registered a temperature of -12°C. Many travelers come to the city during the winter season to enjoy the beauty spread across the region. Tourists can visit various historical heritage villages, castles, and snow grounds to experience winter tourism and activities in Turaif.
How to reach Turaif: Turaif Domestic Airport has several connecting flights with the major cities in Saudi Arabia. Tourists can plan their journey accordingly to reach the city.
Average temperature in Turaif: Turaif experiences winters from December to February. The maximum temperature during these months remains between 15.5 and 16.1°C, while the low ranges between 3.1 and 3.7 °C.
Winter activities in Turaif: It is the best time to visit to forts and heritage villages. They are quite a sight when covered in snow. For a cultural experience, do head out to the souqs and try some seasonal delicacies like hinaini and dessert truffles.
If planning a stay, accommodation options in Turaif range from high-end hotels to budget stays. Le Park Concord, Taj Al Khaleej, Orchids Apartments, and Golden Dune Hotel are some of the properties that stand out. Several famous restaurants to enjoy winter delicacies while visiting this stunning city are Al Shumal Restaurant, The Four Seasons Fast Food, Herfy, Izakaya Restaurant, and Cups and Cone.
4. Arar Snowfall– Massive pastures in KSA near Iraq
The capital of Saudi Arabia’s Northern Borders Province, the Arar region, is located near the borders of Iraq. Well-known for fertile pasture lands, the city is one of the top areas of Saudi Arabia to enjoy snowfall. Arar experiences snowfall every two to three years on average. Although the temperature hardly comes down below zero, a thin snow cover can be seen on the sand during winters. Situated amid an immense rocky limestone plain, a visit to this beautiful city is sure to captivate the tourists.
How to reach Arar: Tourists looking to visit Arar can book a flight to Arar Domestic Airport from the major cities of Saudi Arabia such as Jeddah, Dammam, Riyadh, etc.
Average temperature in Arar: The winter season in Arar commences in December and ends in February. The city registers an average high of 16°C and an average low of 3°C.
Winter activities in Arar: It is a good time to visit the limestone plains and go for city tours during winters. The people of Arar enjoy firework shows on the Saudi National Day, which is celebrated just before the onset of winters. Also, do try Madfoon Chicken, a popular local dish in Arar and nearby areas.
If planning a stay, Arar is home to a number of hotels, ranging from budget, mid-range, to upscale stays. Some of the best hotels in the city for a relaxed and memorable stay are Hala Inn, Qasr Alshamal , and Desert Rose Hotel. Top eateries in Arar are Thalassery Restaurant, The View Restaurant, Peshawar Restaurant Pakistani hotel, Lana Broasted, and Ocean World Seafood Restaurant.
5. Rafha Snowfall – Snowfields promoting winter tourism
Rafha is another fantastic tourist place in Saudi Arabia for enjoying the snowfall. It is located near the border of Saudi Arabia and Iraq. Rafha is one of the largest cities in the Northern Borders Region. The city registers scorching heat in the summer season while it turns into an enchanting place during winters. Rafha is known to experience heavy and deep snowfalls in the month of December. The city is home to open fields that get covered with snow, offering winter tourist activities.
How to reach Rafha: Served by Rafha Domestic Airport, this city attracts many travelers from different parts of the kingdom and foreign countries. The city is well-connected with various Saudi Arabian regions, like Riyadh and Jeddah, via air route, making it easier to reach this city.
Average temperature in Rafha: The winter season in Rafha starts in December and ends in February. The average maximum temperature is around 18.6°C, while the average minimum during winters is 4°C.
Winter activities in Rafha: The Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiques organizes several winter festivals to boost tourism in Rafha. Also, the city has several open fields to enjoy the deep snowfall with playful activities such as snowball fighting.
If planning a stay, some of the best hotels in Rafha for an unforgettable stay are Bareeq Laiali, Qemam Al Safwah Grand, Al Sahraa , Jaww Altamayoz, and Lavender Suites. The city also features several decent eateries for enjoying delectable dishes including Hungry Bunny Rafha, Romansiat Rafha Restaurant, Makkah Restaurant, Lahori Hotel, and Baghdad Delights Restaurant and Grill.
6. Shaqra Snowfall – Window to wonderous city snowfall
Shaqra is located on the northwest side of Riyadh. Attracting visitors from far and wide, the tourists have numerous spots for enjoying snowfall in a city setting. It offers a beautiful blend of old and new architecture and buildings. In addition, the city has hidden tourist destinations, including a heritage village that tourists can explore during alluring winter.
How to reach Shaqra: Shaqra is 190 km from the capital city of Riyadh. Tourists can hire a cab from Riyadh Aiport to reach the city conveniently.
Average temperature in Shaqra: Shaqra experiences the winter season from December to February. The average maximum and minimum temperature is 16°C and 3°C.
Winter activities in Shaqra: It is not the hub for adventure activities, but just a casual stroll down the city roads covered with white snow is sure to lift up the spirit. And there are local festivals as well, that add to the fun for tourists. Shaqra Dates Festival, is one such festival.
If planning a stay, top stays in Shaqra are Le Park Shaqra, Heritage Guesthouse Shaqra, Raoum Inn Shaqra, and Asfar Hotel Suite. Famous eating joints for relishing a delicious meal during a visit to this beautiful city are Althahabi’s Restaurants And Cuisines, Daily & Delicious, Al Humousani, Aleem and Shawarmer.
Other noticeable snowfall events in Saudi Arabia
In 2016 Arabia reported an extreme snowstorm that led some parts of Arabian desert to experience below zero degree temperature. On 23rd November the northern parts of Saudi Arabia started to see snowfall covering the fields. The temperature dropped down upto -4°C in the Northern borders region, central, northeastern regions and Turaif. In 2016 snowfall in Mecca and Madinah covered the mountains and fields of the cities.
The cities of Saudi Arabia present memorable winter tourism with alluring snow-covered fields and valleys. Winter in Saudi Arabia offers pleasant weather conditions resulting in a surge in tourist activities. However all seasons in the Kingdom have a distinct flavor and excitement. Top winter adventure tourist activities include snow sledding and snow hiking. People also indulge in camel riding through the fields covered with snowfall in Saudi Arabia. One can enjoy numerous cultural festivals and delicious winter dishes while visiting Saudi Arabia in winters. Tourists should keep warm clothes handy while visiting the northern part of Saudi Arabia in the winter season. Further, one should remain updated with the weather forecast to accordingly plan the tour.
Must Read: The Seasons In Saudi Arabia Offer The Best Of Nature, Festivals, And Activities
Snowfall in Saudi Arabia FAQs
Which are some of the best places to visit in Arar during the winter season?
Some of the must-visit tourist attractions in Arar during winters are Prince Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Mosque, Arar National Park, Wadi Badna, Wadi Maila area, Palm Garden, and Arar Valley.
What are the winter months of Saudi Arabia?
December to February are the prominent winter months in Saudi Arabia. Some regions can experience snowfall during these months as well.
Which are the top cities that experience snowfall?
Abha, Tabuk, Turaif, Rafha, Arar, and Shaqra are the top cities experiencing snowfall during winters.
What are the tourist activities enjoyed during winters in Saudi Arabia?
Camel riding, sandboarding, and sightseeing are some of the most enjoyed activities during winters in Saudi Arabia.
Which are the popular winter dishes in Saudi Arabia?
Saleeg, matazeez, margoog, and masabeeb are some of the famous winter dishes of Saudi Arabia.
Which festival is celebrated in Abha during winters?
Nejnaj Festival is celebrated in Abha during winters.
How often does it snow in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia is a desert country with extreme temperatures. However, snow is not common throughout the country but can be expeirenced at regular period in some cities.
Does Riyadh experiences snowfall?
No, Riyadh does not experience snowfall.
