Saudi Civil Defense Issues National Early Warning Guidelines

Saudi Civil Defense has issued preventive guidelines explaining how the country’s National Early Warning Platform will deliver emergency alerts through mobile phones and public sirens.

The system broadcasts warning messages to mobile devices through cellular networks using a distinct alert tone, informing residents about potential risks such as severe weather or other hazards and advising them on the actions required. Authorities urged the public to treat all alerts seriously and follow instructions issued by official agencies.

Under the system, alerts are transmitted through mobile service providers operating under the supervision of the Communications, Space and Technology Commission.

Messages are designed to reach phones connected to cellular networks simultaneously during emergencies.

Civil Defense advised recipients of alerts to remain calm, monitor official communication channels and move to a safe indoor location such as an interior room away from windows.

People are encouraged to remain indoors until the threat passes and avoid going outside during warning periods.

The guidance also cautions residents to stay away from open areas, glass surfaces, balconies and rooftops, and to avoid gathering or filming in hazardous locations. Individuals who are outdoors when an alert is issued are advised to enter the nearest building or take shelter behind a solid barrier.

Motorists should stop in a safe location away from bridges and tall buildings until the situation stabilises.

Authorities said the early warning system is tested periodically across different regions. The most recent test took place in November and included fixed siren trials in Riyadh and the governorates of Diriyah, Al Kharj and Al Dilam, as well as in Tabuk and in the Makkah Region at Jeddah and Thuwal.

The directorate also clarified three civil alarm signals used nationwide. A yellow alert indicates a detected risk and the possibility of an incident occurring. A red alert signals that a hazard is underway, while a white alert indicates that the danger has ended.

Each alert corresponds to a specific siren tone: a fixed intermittent tone lasting 60 seconds signals imminent danger, a wailing tone for 60 seconds indicates an active threat, and a continuous tone for 30 seconds signals the all-clear.