World Defense Show (WDS), founded by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), today announced the renewal of its strategic partnership with Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI), confirming the Kingdom’s National Defense and Security Champion will continue as National Strategic Partner for the fourth edition of World Defense Show, taking place in Riyadh from 16-20 January 2028.
The renewed partnership reflects World Defense Show’s ongoing commitment to building long-term relationships with leading national and international organizations that support the continued development of Saudi Arabia’s defense industry, strengthen industrial collaboration, in line with Saudi Vision 2030’s goal of localizing more than 50% of military spending by 2030.
Since its launch, World Defense Show has established itself as a global platform that connects governments, defense companies, investors, innovators and industry leaders, while showcasing Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a hub for international defense cooperation and industrial development. Through its longstanding partnership with SAMI, World Defense Show continues to expand opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange and long-term sector growth.
As National Strategic Partner, SAMI will continue supporting World Defense Show’s mission to convene the global defense ecosystem while reinforcing the Kingdom’s ambitions to develop a competitive and sustainable defense industry.
The partnership builds on the success of World Defense Show’s record-breaking 2026 edition, which welcomed more than 137,000 trade visitors, 1,486 exhibitors from 89 countries, and 513 official delegations representing 121 nations, further reinforcing the Show’s position as one of the world’s leading defense events.
Andrew Pearcey, CEO of World Defense Show, said: “SAMI has been an integral partner since the very beginning of World Defense Show, and we are delighted to continue that journey together as we prepare for the 2028 edition. Strategic partnerships with national champions such as SAMI play an important role in strengthening World Defense Show as a global platform for collaboration, innovation and industrial engagement. Together, we look forward to creating new opportunities that support Saudi Arabia’s growing defense ecosystem and its long-term ambitions under Vision 2030.”
Saud AlAbdullatif, Acting Chief Communication & Support Services Officer, at Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI), said: “Our continued partnership with World Defense Show reflects SAMI’s commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s defense industry ambitions and strengthening the Kingdom’s position within the global defense ecosystem. Together, we will continue creating opportunities for collaboration, innovation and industrial capability development while supporting the objectives of Vision 2030.”
The World Defense Show, organized by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), continues to build on the successes of its previous editions by bringing together international exhibitors, official delegations, decision-makers, and leaders from the defense and security industries, while showcasing the latest developments across the five defense domains: air, land, sea, space, and security. This further strengthens the Show’s position as a global platform for building partnerships, driving investment, and expanding international cooperation.
The renewal of this partnership marks an important early milestone in preparations for the next edition of the Show in 2028, reflecting growing confidence in its position and its role in supporting the growth and development of Saudi Arabia’s military industries sector.
