A Preview of WDS 2026 Insights Expansion and Exciting New Developments in Global Defense.

As the global defense industry looks toward WDS 2026, excitement builds around the anticipated growth and innovations that promise to make this event a premier showcase for international collaboration and technological advancements. Building on the momentum of WDS 2024, which drew record-breaking attendance, substantial global participation, and SAR 26 billion in deals, the next edition is set to expand even further. With over 50% of exhibitor space already secured, WDS 2026 aims to foster deeper connections, highlight technologies, and emphasize partnerships, particularly with small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups. Here, we explore insights from the recent event, China’s growing role, and the ambitious goals that will shape the future of WDS.
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Chief Executive Officer of the World Defense Show, Andrew Percey. (Picture source: World Defense Show)

Army Recognition: Looking back on WDS 2024, what would you highlight as the standout achievements and defining moments that set this year’s event apart?

WDS: WDS 2024 saw remarkable achievements that set it apart as a defining event in the global defense industry. From record-breaking attendance to extensive exhibitor participation, the second edition highlighted the depth and diversity of innovations across defense sectors. With over SAR 26 billion in deals, 773 exhibitors from over 70 countries, and 106,000 visitors, we overachieved all our goals, reinforcing WDS’s position as a premier platform for global collaboration and a key player in advancing partnerships within the defense industry.

Army Recognition: With an increased presence from China at WDS 2024, how has their involvement influenced the event’s dynamics and its global industry relevance?

WDS: With one of the largest pavilions at WDS 2024, China added a new dimension to the event, enhancing its global relevance and industry reach, while strengthening WDS as an international platform committed to bridging global markets and fostering collaboration within the defense industry.

Army Recognition: Looking ahead to the third edition, what growth targets and key areas of development do you foresee for WDS, especially considering the expanding interest globally?

WDS: WDS 2026 is already meeting our expectations, with over 50% of exhibitor space secured 15 months ahead of the event. Building on this momentum, we have expanded our floor space by 54% since the first edition to accommodate growing global interest. Our focus is twofold: further enhancing our international reach and spotlighting local SMEs and startups, offering them a platform to connect with industry leaders. With comprehensive coverage across all defense domains, WDS 2026 aims to foster a collaborative environment that encourages innovation, partnerships, and meaningful industry engagement. These growth targets reflect our commitment to evolving as a premier global platform in the defense sector.

Army Recognition: As WDS continues to scale, what major expansions or new elements are being considered for WDS 2026 to enhance its position as a premier defense event?

WDS: As WDS continues to scale, we’re excited to introduce new features that will soon be announced, reinforcing our role as a premier defense event. We’re also returning our most successful features, such as the ‘Meet the KSA Government’ program, which offers rare access to Saudi Arabia’s decision-makers and provides valuable insights into investment, procurement, and partnership opportunities. Our live displays, a standout success in 2024, will return to showcase cutting-edge technologies in action. This year, we’re placing even greater emphasis on advanced technologies, particularly in naval, unmanned systems and AI, ensuring WDS 2026 remains at the forefront of defense innovation and global industry engagement.

Army Recognition: With the current demand for exhibitor space at WDS, how are you managing capacity, and are there plans to increase available space to accommodate rising interest?

WDS: We’re thrilled to see such strong demand well ahead of the show—it’s a testament to WDS’s growing reputation on the global stage. In response to this early interest, we’ve expanded our available space once again to accommodate the increasing number of exhibitors. We’re committed to ensuring that every participant has an optimal experience, and we look forward to welcoming even more innovative companies to WDS 2026.