Riyadh – BETH | 24 Safar 1447 AH (18 August 2025)

Under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud—and on his behalf—His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Defense and Vice Chairman of the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), will inaugurate the third edition of the World Defense Show (WDS) in Riyadh from 8–12 February 2026. The event is organized by GAMI and is a leading global platform for security and defense.

Why it matters

Royal patronage underscores Saudi Arabia’s position as a global hub for defense industries and specialized exhibitions.

Strategic platform to showcase cutting-edge technologies and build partnerships among governments, manufacturers, and supply chains.

Localization driver: supports Vision 2030’s target to localize over 50% of the Kingdom’s defense spending on equipment and services by 2030.

Key messages

Eng. Ahmed bin Abdulaziz Al-Ohali (GAMI Governor): thanked the leadership for its unwavering support, emphasizing WDS as a strategic tool to boost localization and enhance the global competitiveness of national companies.

Andrew Percy (WDS CEO): the third edition will spotlight the future of defense integration, with tailored programs to strengthen engagement between exhibitors, governments, and investors.

What’s new in 2026

Exhibition space expanded by 58% compared with the first edition, reflecting strong demand from local and international manufacturers.

Addition of a fourth exhibition hall, complementing the three main halls, built to the highest standards.

Previous edition highlights (2024)

SAR 26 billion in military and defense procurement contracts.

773 exhibitors from 76 countries.

441 official international delegations.

Over 106,000 visitors.

Bottom line

WDS 2026 provides a practical enabler for the sector—advancing technology transfer, talent development, investment, and high-value partnerships within and beyond the Kingdom.