Riyadh: A top executive has predicted that the second iteration of Saudi Arabia's World Defence Show will be significantly larger and feature a larger number of participating nations.

The second World Defence Summit will be held in Riyadh from February 4–8, 2024, according to a recent announcement from the General Authority for Military Industries.

WDS CEO Andrew Pearcey made the announcement at the Paris Air Show, adding that Bahrain, Oman, Denmark, and Turkiye had also joined the event, boosting its popularity.

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The number of pavilions from countries like Canada, France, Italy, Nigeria, Portugal, South Korea, Spain, Sudan, and the United Arab Emirates has increased, indicating a growing interest from abroad. The dimensions of the Greek, Chinese, and Indian pavilions have all doubled, while the Czech Republic has increased in size by 145%.

In order to accommodate the increased interest, Pearcey also highlighted changes to the event's schedule, extending the show from four to five days. 

"Day One is now referred to as a preview day. So that's for VIPs, exhibitors, and hopefully any visiting royals who perform a service opening," Pearcey said. 

"The first day is going to be very important," he continued. The Future of Defence Forum is a high-level conference that is scheduled for that day. Top-tier leaders are attending a leadership forum. We intend to schedule some ministerial discussions for the day. Additionally, there will be an opening ceremony with a small flying display. 

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Pearcey added that the exhibition space has increased by 25% compared to the previous event in preparation for more exhibitors and improved features. 

The expansion of the World Defence Show highlights the growing international interest in the Saudi Arabian market and the changing nature of the defence landscape overall, he continued.  

The extra room is intended to offer the best possible platform for showcasing the newest defence innovations and technologies. 

At the show, "we're already 90% sold, which is a fantastic position to be in," he said. 

The event will also include a special arena for the space and exploration industry. 

"At the show, we have an entire space arena. We've set aside 2,000 square metres just for the space industry," Pearcey said.

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In addition to highlighting Saudi Arabia's national strategic goals in space, he continued, "we'll have exhibitors showcasing the most recent in space technology."