Senior Saudi officials outline security priorities and partnership opportunities at the Meet the KSA Government launch
The third day of World Defense Show (WDS) 2026, currently underway in Saudi Arabian capital Riyadh, brought forth integration and innovation as dynamic air and land demonstrations unfolded alongside strategic dialogue between official delegations, government entities, and international companies specialising in defence, security, and advanced technologies. Organised by General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), the show serves as a key platform linking operational needs with emerging technologies, in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030.
In a press statement, the organisers say that the day’s major highlight was the launch of the Meet the KSA Government where senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Interior, National Cybersecurity Authority, and National Guard delivered strategic briefings outlining evolving operational requirements, national security priorities, capability gaps, and opportunities for industry partnership. The sessions provided exhibitors with direct access to decision-makers, fostering dialogue on partnerships and industrial collaboration.
Ahmad Abdulaziz Al-Ohali
“WDS is a platform where vision becomes connection, where government, industry, and innovators come together to advance the Kingdom’s defence priorities. These programmes deepen understanding, accelerate collaboration, and reinforce Saudi Arabia’s commitment to building an integrated and future-ready defence ecosystem,” says Ahmad Abdulaziz Al-Ohali, Governor, GAMI.
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In other sessions, discussions focussed on technologies shaping the future battlespace and experts explored AI-enabled systems, disruptive digital capabilities, quantum applications, and next-generation space operations. The sessions pointed out how integrated technologies enhance readiness, interoperability, and national resilience while building research with real-world application.
The Saudi Supply Chain Zone continued to function as a strategic marketplace. Saudi SMEs and advanced manufacturers engaged with global defence primes, research institutions, and procurement leaders. Conversations centred on localisation strategies, technology transfer, and investment opportunities, reflecting the Kingdom’s growing momentum in defence manufacturing and supply chain development.
Andrew Pearcey
“Today’s programmes demonstrate what WDS does best, we connect people. Whether it is government with industry, innovators with end-users, or SMEs with global partners, WDS is where conversations become partnerships and ideas become capability. This is the foundation of integrated defence,” says Andrew Pearcey, CEO, WDS.
According to the statement, beyond the exhibition halls, live demonstrations at the dedicated airfield and land track drew significant attention. Showcasing coordinated air, land, unmanned, and digital systems operating in complex, multi-domain environments, the displays illustrated the practical reality of integration; the central theme of WDS 2026.
The statement adds that the World Defense Show will conclude on Thursday, bringing together global exhibitors, delegations, innovators, and investors to shape the future of defense collaboration and industrial growth under the Vision 2030 framework.