In a move highlighting the great importance Saudi Arabia places on major global events, the Ministry of Interior, represented by the General Directorate of Passports, announced the launch of a special stamp for the “World Defence Exhibition 2026.” This stamp will be available to travelers arriving in the Kingdom through King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and the exhibition airport in Malham, coinciding with the start of the exhibition, scheduled to take place between February 8 and 12, 2026.
Background and importance of the World Defence Exhibition
The World Defence Exhibition (WDE), organized by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) in Saudi Arabia, is one of the world's leading defense and security exhibitions. Launched in 2022, it has become a biennial global event, attracting major international companies specializing in defense and military industries, as well as official delegations and decision-makers from around the world. The exhibition aims to be a global platform for interoperability across the five domains of defense: land, sea, air, space, and cybersecurity, making it a strategic meeting place for showcasing the latest technologies, exchanging expertise, and forging partnerships.
Symbolic connotations and strategic dimensions
Placing a special event stamp on passports is not merely an administrative procedure, but a symbolic gesture of welcome that reflects the Kingdom's hospitality towards its guests and visitors, and underscores the prestigious status of the exhibition. This initiative commemorates the participants' visit to this important event and aligns with the Kingdom's approach of celebrating major events it hosts, which contribute to strengthening its position as a global destination for business, tourism, and innovation.
This step comes within a broader context that serves the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the national economy and localize industries, including localizing more than 50% of military spending by 2030. The World Defence Exhibition is considered a key tool for achieving this goal, as it provides tremendous opportunities for local companies to form partnerships with their international counterparts, transfer technology and knowledge, and strengthen the local supply chain in the defense industries sector.
Active participation of the Ministry of Interior
The Ministry of Interior is participating in the exhibition under the slogan “Miqdam,” showcasing its latest innovations and ambitious plans for developing the security system through its pavilion. The Ministry is focusing on employing advanced artificial intelligence technologies in maintaining security, developing innovative solutions for safe and smart cities, securing borders with state-of-the-art systems, and demonstrating its capabilities in crisis and disaster management, developing field operations, and protecting the environment and vital infrastructure. This participation reflects the Ministry's commitment to achieving the highest standards of security and safety and keeping pace with global technological advancements to serve the security of the nation and its citizens.
