In a moment that feels almost unreal, snow has fallen over parts of the Saudi Arabian desert—a land better known for its scorching heat and endless sand dunes. Locals woke up to a landscape blanketed in white, with camels walking across snow-covered dunes and families rushing outside to capture the rare sight.

The snowfall, which meteorologists describe as one of the most unusual weather events in the region’s history, stunned residents and scientists alike. Temperatures in some northern and central regions dropped sharply overnight, creating the perfect conditions for this rare phenomenon.

Images and videos shared online show a surreal mix of two worlds—golden desert sands dusted with snowflakes, and children building snowmen where heatwaves usually reign. Many described it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, something their ancestors had never witnessed before.

Experts say such unusual weather patterns could be linked to global climate shifts, as cold air masses from the north sweep into areas that rarely experience such extremes.

For now, the Saudi desert wears an unfamiliar beauty—a temporary miracle of nature, where fire meets ice in one of Earth’s hottest places.