Under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Saudi capital, Riyadh, is preparing to host the third edition of the World Defense Show 2026, organized by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) from February 8 to 12, 2026 (corresponding to Sha'ban 20-24, 1447 AH). This global event serves as a pivotal platform, bringing together key decision-makers, official delegations, and leading international companies in the defense and security sectors to shape the future of the military industry.
Saudi leadership in the military industries sector
The organization of this major event comes within the context of the significant strategic transformations taking place in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which is no longer merely a consumer market for defense products, but has become a regional and global hub for military manufacturing and innovation. The exhibition reflects the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to developing a sustainable national defense system capable of meeting the operational needs of its military and security forces, while simultaneously enhancing its strategic independence.
Supporting leadership and enabling Vision 2030
In this regard, Engineer Ahmed bin Abdulaziz Al-Ohali, Governor of the General Authority for Military Industries and Chairman of the Exhibition's Supervisory Committee, expressed his deepest gratitude and appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and to His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Authority for Military Industries – may God protect them both. Al-Ohali emphasized that the generous patronage and unlimited support from the wise leadership embody the Kingdom's commitment to localizing more than 50% of government military spending, a key objective of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, spearheaded by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, thus enhancing the country's military and security readiness.
Innovative programs and exceptional live performances
The authority explained that the third edition will be more comprehensive and advanced, offering an expanded program that includes live air and ground displays, in addition to static displays showcasing the latest military technologies. The exhibition will also feature new zones designed to enhance collaboration between government entities and international companies. A key highlight of the exhibition is a fully equipped airport with a 2,700-meter runway, four taxiways, and spacious exhibition areas, enabling the event to host the latest military aircraft and present integrated displays of world-class quality.
A platform to promote international partnerships and technology transfer
For his part, Andrew Percy, CEO of the World Defence Exhibition, confirmed that the exhibition will feature specialized programs, such as the "Defense Industry Lab" to showcase emerging technologies and applied research, and a dedicated area for naval systems highlighting the rapid advancements in this field. The exhibition will also focus on supporting Saudi Arabia's supply chains, providing direct connections between local manufacturers, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and major international companies, thus contributing to knowledge transfer and technology localization.
Strategic and economic impact
The World Defence Exhibition is not merely a showcase; it serves as a vital economic engine, contributing to the diversification of national income sources and creating high-quality job opportunities for Saudi talent. The 2026 edition is expected to witness record participation, surpassing previous years, further solidifying Riyadh's position as a leading global destination for investors and innovators in the defense and security sectors, and enhancing opportunities for international industrial and technological cooperation.
