On October 20, 2025, Saudi Arabia conducted a nationwide test of its national alert system to enhance emergency preparedness. The test covered key regions including Riyadh, Tabuk, and Makkah, combining mobile phone alerts with fixed sirens in select locations for layered public warnings.
At 1:00 p.m. local time, warning messages with a new behavioral tone were sent to mobile devices. This was followed by a national alert tone at 1:10 p.m., and fixed sirens sounded at 1:15 p.m. in Riyadh’s Diriyah, Al-Kharj, and Al-Dilam; all Tabuk governorates; and Makkah’s Jeddah and Thuwal. The multi-channel approach allows broad reach and system functionality verification.
The test’s primary aims were to ensure the readiness of the alert infrastructure and boost public familiarity with emergency tones for better response in actual incidents. Authorities reassured citizens that the exercise was routine and urged calm.
The national early warning platform used cellular broadcast technology for real-time mobile alerts across the Kingdom, helping assess coverage and effectiveness.
A follow-up siren test is planned for November 3, 2025, reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s commitment to advancing public safety through modern emergency communication systems.
