Saudi Civil Defense Conducts Nationwide Emergency Alert System Test

Nationwide Emergency Preparedness Drill Concludes

The General Directorate of Civil Defense in Saudi Arabia successfully carried out a comprehensive nationwide test of its emergency warning systems on Monday, November 3, 2025. The drill involved both fixed sirens and mobile phone alerts, designed to assess the efficiency and readiness of the Kingdom's public safety infrastructure. The exercise commenced at 1:00 PM local time and concluded shortly after the sirens sounded at 1:15 PM.

Dual Alert System Engaged Across Key Regions

The test utilized a dual alert mechanism to ensure maximum coverage and reinforce the readiness of the entire warning network. Mobile phones across the Kingdom received test alerts through the National Early Warning Platform via cellular broadcasting. Concurrently, fixed sirens were activated in strategically important and densely populated areas.

The regions and specific governorates where fixed sirens were tested include:

• Riyadh Region: Covering the capital city of Riyadh, along with the governorates of Diriyah, Al-Kharj, and Al-Dilam.
• Tabuk Region: All governorates within the region participated in the readiness check.
• Makkah Region: Focusing on the significant population centers of Jeddah and Thuwal.

Objectives and Phased Implementation

The primary goal of this routine and comprehensive trial was to bolster public safety and emergency preparedness by verifying the operational readiness of emergency alert systems. Officials stated that the test aimed to ensure residents could be effectively notified during actual emergencies and to boost community awareness regarding appropriate response protocols.

The test followed a precise, three-phase timeline:

• At 1:00 PM, warning messages were sent to mobile phones using a new, distinctive 'behavior tone'.
• At 1:10 PM, the official national alert tone was broadcast via mobile.
• Finally, at 1:15 PM, the traditional, high-powered fixed sirens were activated in the designated cities.

The Civil Defense urged residents not to be alarmed by the alerts, clarifying that the test was a precautionary measure and required no action from the public.