The inaugural World Defense Show (WDS) in Riyadh from 6-9 March will demonstrate latest interoperable technologies and explore future industry trends.

In modern conflicts, air remains one of the most critical domains in combating increasingly sophisticated and complex threats. To strengthen its military readiness, Saudi Arabia, historically a major importer of military aircraft and weapons systems, has turned its attention to localizing the manufacture of defense capabilities.
Now, building on a series of milestone agreements signed by the Kingdom’s General Authority for Military Industries and Saudi Arabian Military Industries, Saudi Arabia is set to host World Defense Show – the newest fully-integrated entrant to the international defense show circuit.

Across four trade show days from March 6-9 in Riyadh, the scale of integration among all five domains – air, land, sea, space, and cyber – will be brought to life in virtual simulations, static displays and live demonstrations.

A centerpiece of the exhibition, the Flying Display Program, will activate the show’s 2.7km-long and 50m-wide runway to stun observers with latest air power in the arsenals of leading air forces and product lines of OEMs. The indoor and outdoor exhibition space encompassing a total of 59,400 sqm will host hundreds of exhibitors from the elites of the global defense industry

According to a recent industry report by the U.S.-Saudi Business Council, the biggest market for aircraft parts in the region is in Saudi Arabia – and defense trade shows are serving as a catalyst for this market. At the UAE’s International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) last year, SAMI inked an agreement with US defense prime Lockheed Martin to set-up a joint venture to domestically produce helicopters, fixed-wing aircrafts, and missile defense systems, among other pursuits.

In line with the show’s credo that industry-wide collaboration spurs innovation, World Defense Show has expanded exhibitor participation beyond the traditional circle of defense primes and majors to include SMEs and start-ups. The show has put in place a series of tailored networking programs to enable A&D companies – both large and small – to leverage opportunities at every level of the Kingdom’s expanding value chains.

Furthermore, one of World Defense Show’s key attractions, Meet the KSA Government Program, will grant international and regional exhibitors access to Saudi Arabia’s key decision-makers to explore opportunities in the local defense ecosystem. Dozens of defense and aerospace giants have registered to exhibit at the show – from Boeing to GE Aviation – demonstrating no shortage of interest in supporting the localization of the Kingdom’s military capabilities.

Trade visitors have until February to register for the show. Registrants will receive a complimentary multi-entry visa, valid for one year – allowing for connections to extend beyond the show days. To attend World Defense Show in Riyadh from 6-9 March 2022, visit the following link.