Saudi authorities on Tuesday, September 15, issued a brief emergency alert warning of a possible hostile aerial attack in Makkah, Jeddah and Taif. The alert was issued through the National Early Warning Platform for Emergency Cases, with the Saudi Civil Defence advising residents and people in the affected areas to move indoors and seek safe locations. The warning for Makkah was particularly notable as it was reportedly the first such alert sent to the holy city through the national emergency warning system.

The alerts advised people to stay away from windows, doors, balconies, rooftops and other exposed areas while the warning remained in effect. Those who were outdoors were instructed to enter the nearest building or take shelter behind a solid barrier. Similar alerts were also issued for Jeddah Governorate, Taif Governorate, Abha, Jazan Province, Al Ula Governorate and Yanbu. Authorities urged residents not to gather in open areas or attempt to film the situation and advised them to call 911 in case of an emergency.

The Saudi Civil Defence later announced that the danger had passed in all affected areas within minutes of the alerts being issued. Authorities nevertheless asked residents to continue following official safety instructions and remain alert to further notifications. The brief warnings come amid heightened regional security concerns, with Saudi authorities continuing to use the National Early Warning Platform to quickly notify residents of potential threats and direct them towards safer locations.