By Pelumi Adesokan
Residents, visitors and pilgrims in Makkah were briefly warned of a potential aerial threat on Tuesday, with Saudi authorities directing people to remain indoors and away from windows.
The warning, issued through Saudi Arabia’s emergency alert system, advised those in the affected areas to move to safe locations inside buildings and follow instructions from the Civil Defence. Reports said similar alerts were issued for Jeddah, Taif, Yanbu and Abha after Houthi continues it attacks on Saudi Arabia.
The alert in Makkah was subsequently lifted shortly after it was issued, with an all-clear reportedly given about eight minutes later.
Saudi Civil Defence has previously advised residents to remain calm when emergency warnings are received, stay in secure indoor areas away from windows and avoid going outside until authorities declare that the danger has passed.
The brief warning comes amid heightened security concerns in Saudi Arabia following recent drone-related incidents.
On September 12, the Saudi Foreign Ministry said several drones launched from Iraq had targeted the East-West Pipeline in the Riyadh and Madinah regions, causing injuries and damage. Saudi Arabia said it was taking measures to protect its sovereignty, citizens, residents and facilities.
Meanwhile, Sheikh Prof. Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, President of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, expressed concern over recent developments affecting the Kingdom and stressed the importance of protecting the two holy mosques.
Al-Sudais emphasised the Islamic principles of protecting human life, dignity and property, while rejecting aggression and violence.
He also urged the public to remain united, avoid spreading rumours and obtain information from official sources, particularly during periods of heightened concern.
The alert has also drawn attention to the importance of emergency preparedness in Makkah, a city that receives millions of pilgrims and visitors.
Saudi Civil Defence says warning systems are designed to alert residents to potential threats and guide them towards appropriate protective measures.
At the time of writing, Saudi Arabia’s National Centre for Meteorology showed no red or orange active warnings for the Makkah region, although yellow-level weather alerts were in place for several areas.
For pilgrims and residents, authorities continue to stress the need to remain calm, follow official instructions and rely on verified information during emergencies.
