Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Civil Defence will conduct a nationwide siren test on Monday, November 3, 2025, to assess the country’s emergency preparedness and raise public awareness. The trial will take place across several regions, including Riyadh, Mecca, and Tabuk, and will test the effectiveness of the Kingdom’s emergency warning systems.
Areas Affected by the Siren Test
The sirens will sound in the Riyadh region, covering the governorates of Diriyah, Al Kharj, and Al Dilam. The Mecca region will see siren tests in Jeddah and Thuwal, while Tabuk will also participate. The test will begin at 1:15pm, with residents urged to remain calm and recognise that the exercise is purely for testing purposes.
Key Details of the Siren Test
The siren test is part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to ensure the reliability and effectiveness of its emergency communication systems. According to authorities, the test will be preceded by several signals. At 1:00pm, a new behavioural alert tone will be broadcast, followed by the national alert tone at 1:10pm, and the fixed siren test at 1:15pm.
In addition to the sirens, emergency alerts will be sent via the National Early Warning Platform. These alerts will be delivered directly to mobile phones using a cellular broadcast service. The public is encouraged to take note of the distinctive audio tones, which will help them identify the messages as part of the official emergency system.
Public Awareness and Preparedness
The test is not only designed to assess the functionality of the sirens but also to enhance public readiness. Authorities have stressed that the exercise aims to familiarise residents with the country’s emergency alert system and ensure swift action during actual crises. The Civil Defence has reassured the public that there is no need for panic during the test, which is a vital part of the Kingdom’s emergency preparedness strategy.
This initiative highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to strengthening its emergency response mechanisms and ensuring that the public is well-informed and capable of responding quickly when needed.
The siren test is just one component of broader efforts to enhance national safety and communication systems. Similar exercises have taken place in other regions, and the government continues to focus on improving disaster response strategies.
For those living in the affected areas, the test serves as an important reminder of the systems in place and the role individuals play in maintaining public safety during an emergency.
