The third edition of the World Defense Show, WDS in short, which takes place every even year at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center, some 70 km from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) capital city, saw an increase in participation which was marked by the addition of a further exhibition hall, a 58% surface increase compared to the 2022 first edition, to host the 1,486 exhibitors from 89 countries taking part in the event. In the five days between 8 and 12 February 137,000 visitors attended the exhibition, which include 513 official delegations from 121 countries, according to data provided by the organisers.
Near all major defence companies were present at WDS, including strong representatives from China and Russia, alongside western industries. Some 60 military and defence deals were announced during the show, with a total value of approximately 7.4 billion Euro, marking the importance of the KSA market in the defence world. WDS 2026 also highlighted the constant growth of the national defence industry, one of the aims of the Saudi Vision 2030 being that of reaching a 50% self-sufficiency in defence acquisitions.
Live demonstration of land equipment and UAVs were carried out routinely every day, while the afternoon was marked by the live flight demonstration which involved 25 aircraft, including F-15, F-16, F-35, and Typhoon. Two aerobatic teams, the Saudi Hawks and the Korean Black Eagles delivered their flight programmes daily.
Although WDS takes place in the middle of the desert, nonetheless the naval content of the exhibition is increasing, while a Future Talents Program area highlighted technology-related initiatives by SMEs.
Before leaving the premises EDR On-Line met Mazen Nahawi, the CEO of Carma Media Insight, whose organisation was responsible for monitoring media outlets at the show, who shared with use his feelings about the current edition, as well as some insights on what the 2028 edition might be. Click HERE for the interview.
Scrolling this page EDR On-Line readers will find the articles published by the Editorial Team during the five days of the 2026 edition of the World Defense Show.
Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University R&D showcases new land and naval unmanned systems
China Xinxing showcases its XX-20 unmanned cargo aircraft and announces new version to fly soon
A Sphere™ protection against drones by AirShields, based on soft/hard kill effectors
KSA GADD unveils new LTM 10 loitering munition and ARB free-fall ordnance for UAVs
Kalashnikov adds RUS-PE to its loitering munitions catalogue
Frankenburg Technologies Mark I ultra short-range air defence missile close to mass production
Russia unveils its Sarma multiple launch rocket system alongside a complete target acquisition and C2 suite
NORINCO unveils FL50 swarm-capable loitering munition in Riyadh
Otokar Ural 4×4, compact protection for tough missions
Nemosys on the tarmac, Exavision’s high-end eye for Saudi security
Cockerill CLWS, lightweight station, heavyweight punch
ST Engineering unveils Rhino, its hybrid and connected 4×4 next generation protected vehicle
Rosoboronexport unveils the BTR-22 armoured personnel carrier
Aselsan SEDA 100, a new generation acoustic sensor for modern warfare
MKE showcases Tolga, a new layer of smart short-range air defence
ERAF unveils the Tares III family of 4×4 wheeled armoured vehicles
Heavy metal in the desert, Mercedes-Benz Defence Trucks Zetros 4051 AS 6×6 steps into the spotlight
SAMI unveils HEET 4×4 and HEET 8×8 and company reorganisation
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The World Defense Show 2026 took place in Riyadh from 8 to 12 February, featuring 1,486 exhibitors and 137,000 visitors. The event highlighted 60 military and defense deals worth 7.4 billion Euro, showcasing significant participation from global defense companies, including those from China and Russia. Live demonstrations of military equipment, including aircraft and unmanned systems, were conducted daily.
- 137,000 visitors attended the exhibition over five days.
- 60 military and defense deals were announced, valued at approximately 7.4 billion Euro.
- Live demonstrations included 25 aircraft and various unmanned systems.