The World Defense Show has renewed its strategic partnership with Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) ahead of its fourth edition scheduled for 2028. Under the agreement, SAMI will continue as the National Strategic Partner for the defense and security exhibition taking place in Riyadh from January 16 to January 20, 2028.
Strategic Alliance Supporting Localization Goals
Founded by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), the exhibition serves as a central platform for advancing national industrial capabilities. The renewed strategic alliance directly reinforces Saudi Arabia’s objective under Vision 2030 to localize more than 50 percent of its military spending by the end of the decade. Through this initiative, GAMI and SAMI work to strengthen domestic supply chains, enhance technology transfer, and expand specialized manufacturing capabilities across the Kingdom.
Record Participation at World Defense Show
The renewed agreement follows substantial international participation and growth recorded during the previous event held in 2026. Specifically, that edition welcomed more than 137,000 trade visitors, alongside 1,486 exhibitors representing 89 countries and 513 official delegations from 121 nations.
“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.”
Andrew Pearcey, CEO of World Defense Show
Multi-Domain Interoperability and Industry Collaboration
The upcoming 2028 gathering will showcase technological advancements and operational integration across five core defense domains: air, land, sea, space, and cybersecurity. The platform is structured to connect government entities, global defense contractors, small and medium enterprises, and specialized investors seeking cross-border commercial opportunities and system integration.
“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.”
Saud AlAbdullatif, Acting Chief Communication & Support Services Officer at SAMI
Preparations Underway for Riyadh 2028
GAMI continues its comprehensive organizational and logistical planning for the 2028 event in Saudi Arabia. As industrial development progresses across the defense ecosystem, organizers anticipate expanded commercial engagement, bilateral defense discussions, and major partnership announcements throughout the five-day trade exhibition.
