Saudi Arabia Conducts Nationwide Emergency Warning System Test

Nationwide Emergency Test Conducted

On Monday, October 20, 2025, Saudi Arabia carried out a comprehensive nationwide test of its emergency warning systems. The exercise included the activation of mobile phone alerts across the Kingdom and fixed sirens in designated areas within the Riyadh, Tabuk, and Makkah regions. This drill was part of a broader initiative by the Saudi authorities to verify the readiness of its national alert infrastructure and to boost public preparedness for potential emergencies.

Test Scope and Objectives

The General Directorate of Civil Defense confirmed the test's execution, which aimed to achieve two primary objectives: to assess system readiness and to boost public awareness and preparedness. The assessment focused on the operational efficiency of both the fixed sirens and the National Early Warning Platform, which utilizes cellular broadcast technology to send alerts to mobile devices. By simulating emergency scenarios, authorities sought to familiarize residents with alert tones, help them distinguish between different types of warnings, and ensure they understand appropriate responses during actual emergencies.

Alert Sequence and Locations

The test followed a precise timeline for the alerts. Warning messages were sent to mobile phones using a new behavioral tone at 1:00 p.m., followed by a national alert tone broadcast at 1:10 p.m. Fixed sirens then sounded in the designated areas at 1:15 p.m.

The siren component of the test was specifically conducted in several governorates:

• Riyadh Region: Diriyah, Al-Kharj, and Al-Dilam
• Tabuk Region: All governorates within the region
• Makkah Region: Jeddah and Thuwal

Authorities urged citizens not to panic during the exercise, emphasizing that it was a scheduled preparedness drill.

Context and Future Preparedness

The exercise, led by the Ministry of Interior, is designed to test crisis response systems and aligns with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals for modernization and public safety. It also comes amid efforts to align with global standards for emergency preparedness. This initiative underscores Saudi Arabia's ongoing commitment to enhancing the reliability of its emergency systems and ensuring its citizens are well-prepared for any future situations.