World Defense Show 2026: Record Chinese Participation in Riyadh

In recent years, the World Defense Show (WDS) has emerged as a significant platform for showcasing advancements in defense technology and fostering international collaboration. The upcoming third edition of the WDS is set to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from February 8 to 12, 2026. This event is particularly noteworthy as it will feature a record number of participants from China, with over 100 companies confirmed to attend. This marks a substantial increase in Chinese representation, highlighting the growing importance of the show on a global scale.

The China Pavilion at the WDS has already filled 88 percent of its exhibition space, making it the second-largest national presence at the event, even surpassing the host nation, Saudi Arabia. This strong participation from Chinese firms is a clear indication of the increasing global appeal of the World Defense Show. Since its inception, the WDS has experienced remarkable growth, with exhibition space expanding by 54 percent between 2022 and 2026, effectively more than doubling its size. Currently, over 50 percent of the total floor space for WDS 2026 has already been sold, demonstrating the high demand for participation.

The announcement of this record participation follows the successful conclusion of the second edition of the WDS, which attracted 773 exhibitors from 76 countries. This previous event facilitated deals worth SR 26 billion (approximately $6.9 billion) and welcomed 106,000 trade visits, showcasing the event's significance in the defense sector. Andrew Pearcey, the CEO of World Defense Show, remarked, "The significant interest and commitment from Chinese exhibitors is a testament to the prominence WDS holds in the global defense space." He further emphasized the goal of the event, stating, "Our goal is to bring together global and local stakeholders to advance networking opportunities, strengthen global knowledge-sharing, and shape the future of defense technology."

The enthusiasm from Chinese companies was also evident at the recent 15th Airshow China held in Zhuhai from November 12 to 17. Senior representatives from WDS attended this event to engage with potential exhibitors, providing them with the opportunity to secure their space at the rapidly filling WDS 2026.

As the World Defense Show continues to grow, it not only serves as a platform for showcasing cutting-edge technology but also fosters international cooperation in defense matters. The increasing participation from countries like China reflects a broader trend of globalization in the defense industry. This event is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of defense technology, making it an essential gathering for stakeholders from around the world.