World Defense Show announces larger, tech-focused 2026 edition
The World Defense Show, founded by the General Authority for Military Industries in Saudi Arabia, revealed several new features to be implemented at its upcoming third edition in 2026, under the theme, 'The Future of Defense Integration.' The details of the show, including the expansion of the venue space, were announced at IDEX 2025 on Feb. 18 in Abu Dhabi.
To be held from Feb. 8-12, 2026 in Riyadh, WDS will showcase the latest advancements in defense technologies across all five defense domains — air, land, sea, space, and security. Building on the success of its two prior editions, WDS 2026 will bring together global defense stakeholders to further foster collaboration, innovation, and international partnerships to strengthen global defense capabilities. WDS contributes to Saudi Arabia's growth in the defense sector and is aligned with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to localize 50 percent of defense spending in the Kingdom.
WDS 2026 will span 273,000 square meters of exhibition space, including a new fourth hall. Since its inception in 2022, the area of exhibition stands has seen a considerable 58 percent growth. WDS 2026, in its third edition, is set to be even bigger and has received global participation with 65 percent of exhibition stands already sold.
Attendees can experience several world-class features, take part in strategic networking opportunities, engage in discussions on crucial topics transforming the defense landscape, and view dynamic live and static displays at the expanded 2026 venue.
Andrew Pearcey, CEO of WDS, said: '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 defense operations and deliver attendees another unmatched experience.'
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