The UAE was one of a number of Middle Eastern countries to bare the brunt of a freak weather phenomenon yesterday.

A shock snowstorm blasted through the Arab country, usually known for its blistering heat, scorched deserts and year-round sunshine.

The blizzard covered parts of the country with up to 10 centimetres of snow, according to the local Met Office.

Other Gulf States also experienced rare lightning strikes, sandstorms, rough seas and high winds of up to 90km an hour.