Organizers of the World Defense Show (WDS) announced that 96 percent of exhibition space has already been reserved for the event’s third edition, scheduled to take place in Riyadh from 8 to 12 February 2026 under the patronage of King Salman bin Abdulaziz.
The announcement was made during DSEI 2025 in London, where the WDS team joined the Saudi pavilion to engage with international defense and security leaders. The 2026 edition is expected to feature exhibitors from 80 countries, with around 925 companies confirmed so far, an increase from the 773 exhibitors at the 2024 event.
The British defense industry will expand its presence in Riyadh, with participation up 15 percent compared to the previous edition. Confirmed companies include BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, Draken, Systematic, and Rheinmetall UK. Organizers expect the total number of British participants to reach between 35 and 40 firms.
Andrew Pearcey, CEO of World Defense Show, said:
"The overwhelming demand for exhibition space at WDS 2026, with three out of four halls already sold out, leaving only 4% of space available. This underscores the show's rapid ascent as a pivotal global platform for the defense community."The 2026 edition will highlight advanced defense integration through the “Defense Industry Lab,” featuring technologies in artificial intelligence, robotics, unmanned systems, quantum applications, cybersecurity, space, and advanced materials. The Lab will also host leadership sessions and launch an investor program linking exhibitors with potential partners.
The upcoming event will expand its footprint to 273,000 square meters, a 58 percent increase compared to the inaugural 2022 edition. New dedicated zones will include unmanned systems, naval platforms, and Saudi supply chains.
Registration for business visitors has opened, with organizers encouraging companies to secure remaining spaces before reservations close.
