Exhibition area for World Defense Show 2026 rises by 58 pc

Future defence lab, unmanned systems zone & naval zone added

World Defense Show (WDS), organised by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) in Saudi Arabia, has announced several new features for its third edition, set to take place in Riyadh from February 8-12, 2026.

The General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) in Saudi Arabia has revealed new features for the third edition of its World Defense Show (WDS), set to take place in Riyadh from February 8-12, 2026, focusing on defence innovation and collaboration.

In a press statement, WDS says that the event will showcase the latest advancements in defence technologies across air, land, sea, space and security, focussing on collaboration, innovation and international partnerships.

It adds that this edition will see significant growth in both size and scope, with the venue expanding to 273,000 sqm of exhibition space, including a new fourth hall.

WDS says that the exhibition area has grown by 58 pc since the show’s inception in 2022, and with 65 pc of the stands already sold, global participation is expected to be high.

It adds that among the new features is the Future Defence Lab, which will offer a platform for start-ups and global companies to present cutting-edge technologies.

The statement adds that the unmanned systems zone will focus on the latest in autonomous technologies across defence domains, while the new naval zone will highlight maritime defence advancements.

It adds that the Saudi supply chain zone will strengthen local and international defence industry partnerships by enabling small and medium-sized Saudi enterprises to connect with global defence players.

The statement further adds that WDS 2026 aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals to localise 50 pc of defence spending in the Kingdom and further supports the country’s growing defence sector.

It adds that the show promises to be a key event for industry professionals, offering strategic networking opportunities, discussions on critical defence issues and live and static displays.

“We are excited to announce that WDS 2026 is surpassing the success of the previous edition. The 2026 show will be larger in size and expanded in scope, with increased international and local participation, expanded exhibition space, and a stronger focus on technological advancements, zooming in on unmanned systems and naval. WDS has introduced a range of important new features to promote further integration across the full spectrum of defence operations and deliver attendees another unmatched experience,” says Andrew Pearcey, CEO.

“We have received resounding positive feedback from the previous two editions, with 2024 exceeding our expectations across the board. In response, we have set even more ambitious goals for 2026. By extending the show to offer more networking opportunities, greater deal-making potential, and enhanced collaboration between startups, local SMEs, and global industry leaders, we are committed to strengthening industry connections across the entire supply chain,” Pearcey adds.