WDS 2024 in Riyadh: The Center of Defense Progress and Partnerships
The World Defense Show (WDS) is set to return to Riyadh this February, building on its inaugural success with over 750 exhibitors from 77 countries focusing on future readiness in defense.
Initiated by Saudi Arabia's General Authority for Military Industries, WDS is an international platform for defense innovation, spanning air, land, sea, space, and security sectors. From February 4-8, the event provides a comprehensive view of the defense industry, from local to global needs.
The show will unite military figures, Saudi leaders, and industry insiders, with an eye on what's next in defense. Saudi Arabia is aiming to localize 50% of its defense spending by 2030, which is a key event theme.
The "Meet the KSA Government Program," spotlighted by WDS CEO Andrew Pearcey, fosters connections between global firms and Saudi opportunities. This program, a hit since its 2022 launch, guides global companies through Saudi defense industry processes.
The event also reflects Saudi defense innovations, with Pearcey noting the showcase of local companies eager to engage with visitors.
Space Takes Center Stage
Under "Equipped for the Future," this year's WDS emphasizes space—a first for the event. Space technology's growing role in defense strategy underscores the importance of international partnerships.
A new "Defense Space Arena" invites global collaboration, where nations and leading space firms can exchange ideas and form partnerships. The Space Theatre, open from February 5-8, will have over 40 leaders discussing various space themes, from governance to technological interoperability, and examine the future defense talent and collaboration.
Hosted by the Saudi Ministry of Defense, the space domain features will be interactive, with both physical and digital exhibits including a space station simulation to enlighten visitors on space defense.
The Kingdom's future space plans seek to encourage international cooperation for better security and success in space ventures.
SAMI's Large-scale Exhibit
Aligned with Vision 2030, Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) will participate in WDS 2024 as a major partner. SAMI will have a 3,000 sq. meter pavilion, revealing its innovative work in aerospace, land, and naval technologies.
SAMI's exhibit looks to the Kingdom's future, with senior executives engaging in dialogues to offer insights and tackle industry challenges. The company is prepared to sign numerous agreements to bolster its contributions to Saudi defense.
WDS 2024 aims to connect global defense industry players for a wide-ranging conversation across its content theaters.
Exciting New Attractions
The forum will launch new features in line with this year's "Equipped for Tomorrow" theme, such as the "Journey to the Future" interactive experience, highlighting innovations and emerging technologies.
The hub will also spotlight budding startups and inventors, linking disruptive ideas with resources and networks necessary for development. Pearcey emphasizes this as vital for ongoing defense sector evolution.
Visitors can expect dynamic live demos, aircraft displays from mission aircraft to fighter jets, and a focus on emerging talents in defense innovation.
The show will unite military figures, Saudi leaders, and industry insiders, with an eye on what's next in defense. Saudi Arabia is aiming to localize 50% of its defense spending by 2030, which is a key event theme.
The "Meet the KSA Government Program," spotlighted by WDS CEO Andrew Pearcey, fosters connections between global firms and Saudi opportunities. This program, a hit since its 2022 launch, guides global companies through Saudi defense industry processes.
The event also reflects Saudi defense innovations, with Pearcey noting the showcase of local companies eager to engage with visitors.
Space Takes Center Stage
Under "Equipped for the Future," this year's WDS emphasizes space—a first for the event. Space technology's growing role in defense strategy underscores the importance of international partnerships.
A new "Defense Space Arena" invites global collaboration, where nations and leading space firms can exchange ideas and form partnerships. The Space Theatre, open from February 5-8, will have over 40 leaders discussing various space themes, from governance to technological interoperability, and examine the future defense talent and collaboration.
Hosted by the Saudi Ministry of Defense, the space domain features will be interactive, with both physical and digital exhibits including a space station simulation to enlighten visitors on space defense.
The Kingdom's future space plans seek to encourage international cooperation for better security and success in space ventures.
SAMI's Large-scale Exhibit
Aligned with Vision 2030, Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) will participate in WDS 2024 as a major partner. SAMI will have a 3,000 sq. meter pavilion, revealing its innovative work in aerospace, land, and naval technologies.
SAMI's exhibit looks to the Kingdom's future, with senior executives engaging in dialogues to offer insights and tackle industry challenges. The company is prepared to sign numerous agreements to bolster its contributions to Saudi defense.
WDS 2024 aims to connect global defense industry players for a wide-ranging conversation across its content theaters.
Exciting New Attractions
The forum will launch new features in line with this year's "Equipped for Tomorrow" theme, such as the "Journey to the Future" interactive experience, highlighting innovations and emerging technologies.
The hub will also spotlight budding startups and inventors, linking disruptive ideas with resources and networks necessary for development. Pearcey emphasizes this as vital for ongoing defense sector evolution.
Visitors can expect dynamic live demos, aircraft displays from mission aircraft to fighter jets, and a focus on emerging talents in defense innovation.