IDEX: What visitors to the World Defense Show in 2026 can expect

WDS 2026 will showcase defence integration through technological development, once more featuring defence primes, contractors, innovators and start-ups from around the globe. Building on the record success of the second event in February last year, the team aims to create a show that offers more to both exhibitors and visitors.

Andrew Pearcey, chief executive officer, said: “The theme for WDS2026 is the ‘future of defence integration’, which will emphasise the vital importance of collaboration across all defence domains, and will showcase the technology that is enabling ever more sophisticated levels of multi-domain integration.”

The industry recognises that a holistic and multi-domain approach to national defence is crucial, and WDS2026 will highlight the developments that empower wider integration, introducing five new features focusing on these cutting-edge technologies, including the unmanned systems zone, naval innovation zone, and how AI is shaping the future of defence.

Also new for 2026 is the Saudi supply chain zone, which focuses on the growing capabilities and partnership prospects of high-calibre local manufacturers, and highlights the continuing national support for the Kingdom’s goal to localise 50 per cent of defence spending by 2030.

As a unique introduction to the potential of the Saudi market, industry interest across the globe has been high. Pearcey said: “The demand has been phenomenal. We have already sold 65 per cent of the floorspace for the third edition.

“Many of the industry’s leading multi-defence businesses booked their stands for 2026 during the 2024 event. We have grown each year, in the size of our event, in the number exhibitors and visitors, but also in the depth and breadth of expertise and influence of those taking part in our panels, presentations and discussions.”

Many of the show’s established and successful features will return, including the delegations programme, WDS connect, cultural programme, future talent programme, live displays, content theatres and meet the KSA government.