In a move reflecting its strategic ambitions, Saudi Arabia continues to solidify its position as a major player in the global defense industry. The World Defense Show 2024, organized by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) in Riyadh, featured an unprecedented focus on local capabilities and national innovations. The exhibition stands out as a vital platform not only for showcasing the latest military technologies but also as a cornerstone in achieving the goals of Vision 2030, which aims to localize more than 50% of military spending by the end of the decade.
A global platform with a national vision
The World Defence Exhibition, whose second edition was held in February 2024, is more than just a trade event; it embodies the Kingdom's comprehensive national transformation. The event aims to build a sustainable defense system based on national expertise and strengthens local supply chains. By bringing together industry leaders, decision-makers, and experts from around the world, the exhibition provides a unique opportunity to exchange experiences and establish strategic partnerships that serve localization and technology transfer objectives, thereby enhancing the Kingdom's strategic independence and contributing to the diversification of its economy.
Investing in minds: The “Future Talents” program
On its fourth day, the exhibition highlighted the importance of human capital by dedicating its events to the “Future Talents” program. This strategic initiative, implemented under the auspices of BAE Systems and in collaboration with government entities, aims to empower and prepare young Saudis for high-quality career paths within the defense sector. The program brought together students and early-career professionals with industry experts in interactive sessions that discussed the future skills required to support the defense transformation, covering vital areas such as cybersecurity, unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, and emerging space technologies. His Excellency the Governor of the General Authority for Military Industries, Engineer Ahmed bin Abdulaziz Al-Ohali, emphasized that developing human capabilities is the cornerstone for achieving the Kingdom’s objectives in this vital sector.
Strategic impact and future partnerships
The exhibition not only empowered talent but also provided direct opportunities for investors and exhibitors through the “Saudi Government Entities Meeting” program, which offered a platform for direct interaction with officials and insights into national priorities and industrial collaboration opportunities. Andrew Percy, CEO of the World Defence Exhibition, stated that the events of the fourth day embodied the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to developing a generation capable of keeping pace with global defense transformations and building long-term capabilities. With the participation of more than 773 exhibitors from 75 countries, the exhibition contributes to driving the growth of the Kingdom’s defense industries ecosystem, strengthening its position as a regional hub for defense innovation, and opening new horizons for investment and international partnerships that support sustainable development.
