Riyadh (TDI): The third edition of the World Defense Show in Riyadh concluded with more than 60 military and defense deals valued at SR33 billion ($8.8 billion), highlighting Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to expand its domestic defense industry.
Organized by the General Authority for Military Industries, the five-day exhibition hosted 1,486 exhibitors from 89 countries and drew 137,000 visitors. The event featured 63 aircraft, over 700 pieces of military equipment, as well as maritime and unmanned systems demonstrations.
Ahmad Al-Ohali, governor of the Authority, emphasized the show’s role in advancing Vision 2030’s goal of localizing defense spending. Military expenditure sourced from within Saudi Arabia rose from 4% in 2018 to 25% by the end of 2024, while the national workforce in the sector grew from 25,000 in 2020 to 34,000 employees.
The exhibition also served as a hub for commercial and governmental agreements, with 220 deals signed, including 93 government-to-government agreements and 127 partnerships with private companies. These agreements focus on technology transfer and local manufacturing projects aimed at strengthening domestic supply chains.
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Andrew Pearcey, CEO of the World Defense Show, noted that preparations for the next edition are already underway, with a focus on expanding the venue and introducing new features to accommodate growing demand.
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The event also featured a “Future Talent Program,” inviting around 4,000 to 5,000 students aged 16 and above to explore careers in the defense industry, engage with exhibitors, and participate in educational activities designed to cultivate the next generation of professionals in the sector.
