The third edition of World Defense Show (WDS) 2026, to be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from 8-12 February, has secured a record participation of more than 100 defense sector companies from China, underpinning the growing international interest in the event, which will showcase the future of defense through breakthrough technological advancements in the sector.
Since its inception, WDS has experienced substantial growth in exhibition space, increasing by an impressive 54 percent from 2022 to 2026 - more than doubling its size. Following international interest, the floor space for WDS 2026 is already more than 50 percent sold out. Specific to the China country pavilion, 88 percent of the space has now been secured by Chinese companies, positioning it as the 2nd largest country presence over hosting Saudi Arabia.
The significant participation and interest from Chinese companies have been highlighted during the 15th Airshow China, held from November 12-17, 2024, in Zhuhai. Senior representatives of WDS are attending the event to provide potential exhibitors with the opportunity to learn more about WDS 2026 and to book their space, which is filling up quickly.
At WDS 2024, China had a noteworthy presence with one of the largest pavilions, making up 9 percent of the overall attendance. The companies showcased innovative technologies, underlining their cutting-edge capabilities in diverse areas of the defense industry.
Andrew Pearcey, Chief Executive Officer of World Defense Show, said: “The significant interest and commitment from Chinese exhibitors is a testament to the prominence WDS holds in the global defense space. Our goal is to bring together global and local stakeholders to advance networking opportunities, strengthen global knowledge-sharing, and shape the future of defense technology.”
WDS is participating in the 15th Airshow China, located at booth H5C19. Visitors can learn about popular features such as the ‘Meet the KSA Government’ program and enhanced WDS Connect. Other successful signature features as well as an abundance of new show themes and ways to network will be announced on WDS 2026 over the coming months.
Founded by Saudi Arabia’s defense industry regulator, the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), WDS serves as the global stage for innovation and technological advancement across air, land, sea, space, and security domains. Reflecting Saudi Arabia’s ambition to becoming a premier global destination for major events, WDS drives the Kingdom’s aspirations to be the future hub of the defense industry.
Aligned with Vision 2030, WDS supports the Kingdom’s objective to localize 50% of military expenditures, reinforcing its commitment to a self-sufficient national defense industry. Positioned strategically and backed by economic strength, Saudi Arabia is set to achieve its goals.
Following its inaugural edition in 2022 and a successful second edition in 2024, the third edition, taking place from 8-12 February 2026 in Riyadh, will feature networking programs, live demonstrations of advanced defense solutions, and knowledge-sharing segments that will generate opportunities for local and global military industries.
World Defense Show will be held in the presence of Saudi Arabia’s key leadership, international delegations and prominent industry decision makers from around the world.
The General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), founder of the World Defense Show, serves as the key organization responsible for regulating, developing, and licensing Saudi Arabia’s military industries sector.
Working alongside public and private partners, GAMI is committed to achieving the Vision 2030 goal of localizing over 50% of the Kingdom’s defense spending, strengthening national manufacturing capabilities, and positioning the sector as a vital pillar of the national economy, with a direct positive impact on the Kingdom’s GDP by 2030. Through WDS, GAMI showcases the Kingdom’s dedication to technological advancement and self-sufficiency in defense.
Caption: HE Ahmed Abdulaziz Al-Ohali, Governor of GAMI, and Lt. General Fayyad Al-Ruwaili, General Chief of Staff of Royal Saudi Armed Forces at WDS 2024 © WDS)
