The World Defense Show is gearing up to host a prominent array of international defense companies in its second edition, scheduled for 4-8 February 2024 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This development signifies a notable surge in global reservations, a fact underlined during the recent Paris Air Show. 

According to WDS Chief Executive Officer Andrew Pearcey, the show’s reach is truly global and has seen substantial increases in the size of country pavilions. “We have seen burgeoning international interest, with increased pavilions from Canada, France, Italy, Nigeria, Portugal, South Korea, Spain, Sudan, and the UAE. The Greek, Chinese, and Indian pavilions have all doubled in size, while the Czech Republic is 145% bigger.”

Bookings have also been boosted by countries who are exhibiting at the World Defense Show for the first time, including Bahrain, Denmark, Kuwait, Oman and Turkey. “The global defense landscape is evolving and the growth in the World Defense Show underscores the international focus on the Saudi Arabian market,” he added. 

With the addition of a new third hall, the exhibition space has expanded to 47,000 sqm to meet growing demand. Pearcey said: “Despite this increase, and with more than seven months remaining, we are nearing capacity with 92% of available floor space already sold.” 

The exhibition boasts a range of key features, including static land and air displays and an engaging daily program. A standout addition this year is the Space Arena. Pearcey elaborated: “The Space Arena, introduced for WDS 2024, forms an integral part of our Journey to the Future showcase. Space is a domain that is critical to national defense strategies.”