Saudi Arabia is intensifying its push to become a central player in the global defense industry as it prepares to host the 2026 edition of the World Defense Show, with state-owned Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) playing a pivotal role in the kingdom’s strategic transformation.

Officials have presented World Defense Show 2026 as a platform designed not only to exhibit advanced military technology but also to deepen industrial partnerships, attract foreign investment and localise defense production under the kingdom’s Vision 2030 economic diversification strategy.

The event is expected to draw major international defense contractors, government delegations and security specialists from across Europe, North America, Asia and the Middle East.

At the centre of this effort is SAMI, which has undergone rapid expansion since its establishment and is tasked with increasing domestic defense manufacturing capacity.

The company has entered joint ventures and technology transfer agreements across aerospace, land systems, naval platforms and advanced electronics.

Executives describe the transformation as a shift from procurement-focused spending to building a sustainable, high-value industrial base within the kingdom.

Saudi authorities have set ambitious targets for localising a significant share of defense expenditure, aiming to retain more economic value inside the country while developing technical expertise and employment opportunities for Saudi nationals.

Industry observers note that the kingdom’s defense budget remains among the largest globally, providing both scale and leverage in negotiations with international suppliers.

World Defense Show 2026 is expected to highlight emerging technologies including autonomous systems, cyber capabilities, missile defense and next-generation air platforms.

Organisers have indicated that live demonstrations and cross-domain displays will feature prominently, reinforcing the show’s positioning as a comprehensive defense and security exhibition.

The gathering comes amid heightened global demand for defense equipment and modernization programs, driven by geopolitical tensions and evolving security threats.

Saudi Arabia’s leadership has signalled that strengthening domestic industrial resilience and strategic partnerships is central to ensuring long-term security and economic stability.

As preparations advance, analysts suggest the event will serve as a barometer of the kingdom’s success in repositioning itself from a major defense importer to a growing industrial and technological hub in the sector.