The exercise, run by the General Directorate of Civil Defense, was part of ongoing efforts to verify the reliability of the National Early Warning Platform. It aimed to familiarize residents with alert tones and enhance readiness for natural disasters or security incidents.

Sirens and Alerts Nationwide

At 1:00 PM local time, the test began with a “behavioral” alert tone broadcast to mobile phones, followed by a national alert at 1:10 PM and fixed sirens at 1:15 PM, lasting about 15 minutes.

Reports confirmed the sequence concluded as scheduled, with alerts received even on silent mode.

Targeted Regions and Coverage

Sirens sounded in specific areas of Riyadh (Diriyah, Al Kharj, Al-Dilam), Tabuk, and Makkah (Jeddah, Thuwal).

Mobile phone alerts were sent nationwide through cell broadcast technology, ensuring all residents received messages regardless of carrier or device settings.

Objectives and System Components

The test assessed the reliability of both fixed sirens and mobile alert systems, including geo-fenced notifications and distinct sound patterns for public recognition.

Civil Defense advised citizens to note the tones and review safety procedures via its official 998 app and website. Officials emphasized the exercise was unrelated to current regional tensions and consistent with prior drills conducted in October 2025 and 2019.

Advance notices through the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) and government social media channels prevented confusion.

Post-test videos from Riyadh and Jeddah confirmed sirens operated as planned, and users shared screenshots of the alerts online.

Authorities reported no incidents or disruptions, calling the exercise a success in boosting public awareness.