World Defense Show Accelerates Industry Innovation In 2026 Edition
Experience the future of defense integration at WDS 2026! Explore cutting-edge tech in new zones. Secure your badge as trade visitor registration opens!
World Defense Show 2026 is promising to take the industry to new heights as the global platform’s third edition introduces a suite of new features and expands in both size and impact — unlocking the next era of defense innovation under the theme, ‘The Future of Defense Integration.’ From the new Future Defense Lab, Unmanned Systems Zone and Naval Zone to the Saudi Supply Chain Zone and ever-favored airshow displays, visitors and participants can witness cutting-edge technologies charging an industry shift towards more seamless integration across all defense domains.
With the global defense landscape in constant flux driven by rapid technological advancements and evolving strategic imperatives, World Defense Show (WDS) has rapidly established itself as a critical international forum, with a niche offering to tap into Saudi Arabia’s up-and-coming defense industry. The soon approaching 2026 edition, scheduled for February 8-12 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is set to be a record breaking event with unprecedented global demand. The venue has significantly expanded its physical footprint, increasing exhibition space by 58% since the show’s 2022 inception, and launched new features designed to propel the global defense community — inclusive of Saudi Arabia’s talent and capabilities — towards future-defining outcomes. Andrew Pearcey, CEO of World Defense Show says, “Saudi Arabia’s accelerating defense ecosystem is a central theme that permeates across every aspect of WDS 2026. Keeping up with the broader trends of the industry, we’re zooming in on integrative technologies across all domains, in line with our theme. We’re committed to fostering connections and collaborations and engaging in discussions that will shape the next generation of defense, actively involving Saudi talent and ingenuity.”
Framed as the show’s cornerstone of innovation, the Future Defense Lab is primed to be the most compelling example of WDS 2026’s commitment to driving forward-thinking and groundbreaking advancements. Designed as a pulsating, dynamic hub, it invites visitors to experience the world's most cutting-edge technologies, some never-before-seen, to firmly grasp the emerging technological solutions in the marketplace. Unveiling breakthrough innovations from startups, SMEs, and global primes alike, with a strict criterion for inclusion of new technologies in critical areas such as AI, unmanned systems, robotics, autonomous vehicles, quantum technologies, cyber security, space-based tech, and advanced materials to be showcased — the Future Defense Lab characterizes the forefront of defense technology.
Stressing the magnitude of the Future Defense Lab, Andrew Pearcey remarks, "Innovation is the pulse of the upcoming edition, with the Future Defense Lab pushing forth that momentum. It's a dynamic, collaborative hub meant to accelerate groundbreaking advancements with long-term impact envisioned to promote continuous connection and collaboration, bridging the gap between startups, government, and academic institutions, advancing R&D, and creating unparalleled opportunities long after WDS 2026 concludes.” Anchored within the Future Defense Lab, a new Investor Program will open opportunities for investors to explore the exhibition floor and directly connect with local and global innovators, encouraging potential partnerships. Additionally, dedicated content theaters, across the halls, will be hosting stimulating discussions around the industry’s trajectory.
As autonomous systems are rapidly reshaping modern combat and defense strategies, the Unmanned Systems Zone provides a dedicated area showcasing innovative autonomous technologies across various domains. From sophisticated AI and cyber capabilities to advanced ground robotics and aerial drones, visitors will gain firsthand insights into the future of unmanned operations and their integration into comprehensive defense frameworks. Our purpose-built venue, with its superb facilities for live demonstrations, offers a unique opportunity to witness these cutting-edge unmanned technologies in dynamic, real-world scenarios, bringing their capabilities to life. Whereas the new Naval Zone, in line with Vision 2030’s efforts to ramp up not only the overall defense industry but also significantly expand naval operations, will highlight critical advancements in vessels, AI, and cyber capabilities specifically tailored for maritime defense.
Shining the spotlight on Saudi SMEs, startups, and entrepreneurs, the Saudi Supply Chain Zone gives local innovations a seat at the global table. Connecting local talent with global stakeholders, this vital feature offers a high-impact space where local innovators can be discovered, network, and ultimately cultivate deals and business growth, directly supporting Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 localization goals, promoting technology transfer and facilitating a self-sufficient defense industrial base.
As World Defense Show launches its trade visitors campaign, undoubtedly innovation is the core attraction for companies and individuals to secure badges. Trade visitors seeking to uncover the next generation of defense solutions and market insights while cultivating partnership opportunities, will find extensive value at WDS 2026 across these new zones. The immersive, real-world scenarios showcased through live land and air demonstrations further enhance the visitor experience, offering a unique venue to witness defense capabilities in action.
With limited exhibitor space remaining for WDS 2026, interested parties are encouraged to act swiftly. Parallel to the WDS team’s participation in DSEI 2025, trade visitor registration is now live, offering a prime opportunity to secure your badge and engage directly with the show's representatives.