World Defense Show (WDS) is accelerating preparations for its fourth edition in Riyadh in January 2028, reinforcing its position as a leading international platform for defense collaboration through a series of strategic initiatives unveiled during Eurosatory 2026.
Founded by Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), the exhibition announced new partnerships and highlighted strong re-booking figures as it seeks to build on the success of its record-setting 2026 edition.
Canada to Establish First National Pavilion at WDS 2028
Among the key announcements made at Eurosatory 2026 was the signing of an agreement between World Defense Show and Global Affairs Canada (GAC) to establish the first-ever Canadian National Pavilion at WDS 2028.
The initiative is expected to provide Canadian defense and security companies with a dedicated platform to engage with government representatives, military officials, and industry stakeholders from around the world during the Riyadh-based event.
The show also confirmed that Development East Manufacturing Holding Co. (DEMCO) has joined WDS 2028 as a Premium Partner, reflecting growing confidence among industry leaders in the exhibition’s long-term value.
WDS 2028 Gains Momentum as Re-Bookings Increase
According to the organizers, exhibitor re-bookings for WDS 2028 have already reached significant levels nearly 19 months before the event, highlighting increasing global interest in participating in one of the Middle East’s largest defense exhibitions.
Andrew Pearcey, Chief Executive Officer of World Defense Show, emphasized the event’s broader strategic role within the international defense ecosystem.
“World Defense Show was designed from the outset to serve as more than a traditional exhibition platform. Our objective is to create an environment where governments, industry leaders, innovators and strategic partners can come together to shape the future of defense collaboration and engagement,” Pearcey said.
He added:
“The establishment of the first-ever Canadian National Pavilion at WDS 2028 reflects the growing international confidence in the platform and its ability to foster meaningful collaboration across the global defense ecosystem. We also welcome DEMCO as a Premium Partner for WDS 2028 and look forward to working with both organizations as we continue to strengthen WDS’ international footprint.”
WDS 2026 Set New Benchmarks for Global Defense Events
The momentum surrounding WDS 2028 follows a record-breaking World Defense Show 2026, which was held in Riyadh in February 2026.
According to official figures, the event hosted:
- 1,486 exhibitors from 89 countries;
- 513 official delegations representing 121 countries;
- More than 137,000 visitors;
- Participation from all Top 10 global defense companies;
- Over 60 companies ranked among the world’s Top 100 defense firms; and
- 389 live demonstrations across air, land, and unmanned domains.
The scale of participation further underscored the exhibition’s growing significance within the global defense events calendar.
WDS 2026 Generated $8.8 Billion in Announcements
The 2026 edition also highlighted the commercial importance of the event, with organizers reporting approximately $8.8 billion (SAR 33 billion) in orders and announcements made during the five-day exhibition.
The figures reflect WDS’ expanding role in facilitating defense engagement, industrial cooperation, and strategic partnerships aligned with Saudi Arabia’s broader economic transformation agenda.
Supporting Saudi Vision 2030 Defense Goals
As Saudi Arabia continues efforts to localize 50% of its defense spending under Vision 2030, World Defense Show has evolved into an increasingly important platform for showcasing the Kingdom’s industrial ambitions and defense modernization initiatives.
WDS 2028 is expected to play a pivotal role in demonstrating progress across Saudi Arabia’s defense ecosystem while promoting international collaboration, investment, and technology transfer.
Purpose-Built Venue Enhances Multi-Domain Demonstrations
One of the distinguishing features of World Defense Show is its dedicated venue near Riyadh, specifically designed to support large-scale operational demonstrations.
The site includes:
- A 2,700-meter runway for aerial displays;
- Extensive land demonstration areas;
- Integrated environments supporting land, air, sea, space, and security domains; and
- Infrastructure tailored to showcase operational capabilities in realistic settings.
This emphasis on live demonstrations has become a defining characteristic of the exhibition and a key factor driving exhibitor and visitor interest.
Looking Ahead to WDS 2028
Preparations for World Defense Show 2028 will continue throughout 2026 and 2027, with organizers planning additional announcements related to future-focused themes, conference programming, and industry initiatives beginning in early 2027.
As global defense priorities evolve, WDS aims to further strengthen its international footprint while serving as a platform for innovation, strategic dialogue, and cross-border collaboration.