Saudi Arabia braces for third winter cold wave as temperatures dip below zero

The NCM has urged residents in affected areas to take necessary precautions

Last updated: December 29, 2025 | 10:35

Khitam Al Amir

1 MIN READ

The NCM said the cold spell will affect several regions.

X / Saudi-Expatriates.com

Dubai: Temperatures are set to fall sharply across parts of Saudi Arabia as a third winter cold wave grips the Kingdom on Wednesday and Thursday, according to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM).

The NCM said the cold spell will affect several regions, including Al Jouf, the Northern Borders, Hail, Qassim and Riyadh, with minimum temperatures expected to range between 3°C and as low as 1°C below zero in some areas.

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This system marks the third cold wave to impact Saudi Arabia during the winter of 2025. The first, which struck in mid-December, brought unusually cold conditions and snowfall to parts of the Kingdom, notably Hail and Tabuk.

The NCM has urged residents in affected areas to take necessary precautions, particularly during the early morning and night-time hours, when temperatures are expected to be at their lowest.

Authorities said they continue to closely monitor weather developments and advised the public to follow official updates and safety guidance.

Khitam Al Amir

With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public. Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.

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