World Defense Show
Saudi Arabia's biennial defence expo in Riyadh; $8.8 billion in deals signed at the 2026 edition.
Last refreshed: 30 March 2026
Why is Riyadh becoming the world's biggest defence marketplace?
- What is the World Defense Show?
- Saudi Arabia's biennial defence exhibition in Riyadh. The 2026 edition had 1,486 exhibitors and $8.8 billion in deals.Source: background
- When is the next World Defense Show?
- WDS is held every two years in Riyadh. The 2026 edition ran 8-12 February.Source: quick_facts
- How big is the World Defense Show?
- 137,000 visitors, 1,486 exhibitors from 89 countries, 513 official delegations from 121 countries, across 800,000 square metres.Source: quick_facts
Background
The World Defense Show (WDS) is Saudi Arabia's flagship defence exhibition, held biennially in Riyadh. The February 2026 edition attracted 1,486 exhibitors from 89 countries, 513 official delegations from 121 countries, and 137,000 visitors. Some 60 deals worth approximately $8.8 billion (33 billion Saudi Riyals) were announced during the show.
For the drones and Counter-UAS sector, WDS 2026 was a critical sales venue. Anduril unveiled its Pulsar electronic warfare system at the show, targeting Gulf States under active drone threat from the Iran conflict. The timing was deliberate: the Gulf's demand for counter-drone systems is concrete and urgent.
WDS is part of Saudi Vision 2030's goal to localise over 50% of military spending. The exhibition covers 800,000 square metres including a dedicated runway and live demonstration area.
