Saudi Arabia to Host the Third World Defense Show in Riyadh in February 2026

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Under the patronage of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman, Saudi Arabia is set to host the third edition of the World Defense Show (WDS) in Riyadh from February 8 to 12, 2026.

The event will be officially opened by Minister of Defense and GAMI Vice Chairman, Prince Khalid bin Salman, representing the King. The World Defense Show has become a leading international defense exhibition, reflecting the Kingdom’s forward-looking vision and its commitment to innovation and global partnerships.

GAMI Governor Ahmad Al-Ohali expressed his gratitude to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their strong support of the military industries sector. He highlighted that the royal patronage supports the Kingdom’s goal of localizing 50 percent of military spending as part of Vision 2030. “This commitment strengthens global partnerships, leverages Saudi industrial capabilities, and shapes the future of defense while ensuring national growth and stability,” Al-Ohali said.

Andrew Pearcey, CEO of the World Defense Show, said the 2026 edition would expand collaboration between government and industry, providing a platform for the global defense supply chain to meet, share ideas, and do business. With larger exhibition space, new content, and a focus on technology transfer and talent development, WDS 2026 aims to bring together global leaders, innovators, and emerging talent to shape the defense industry’s future.

The 2026 event will see a fourth exhibition hall added, increasing total exhibition space by 58 percent compared to the first edition. Designed to meet the highest international standards, the venue will enhance partnerships and improve the overall visitor experience.

The World Defense Show has grown rapidly since its launch. The 2024 edition featured 773 exhibitors from 76 countries, hosted 441 international delegations, facilitated deals worth SR26 billion, and welcomed 106,000 trade visitors, building on the success of the inaugural 2022 event.