Latest news with #WorldDefenseShow
Zawya
24-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
World Defense Show 2026 nears sell-out
Istanbul, Turkey – World Defense Show (WDS), founded by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) in Saudi Arabia, today announced it has already secured 90% of its exhibitor space for its upcoming 2026 edition. This announcement coincides with WDS's attendance at IDEF 2025 in Istanbul, Turkey, where the WDS team is engaging with key Turkish defense stakeholders. Turkey is the 3rd largest participating country at WDS 2026, with Turkish exhibitors currently occupying 4,400 sqm of exhibition space. Turkish participation is expected to grow considerably from 2024 to 2026, underscoring the significant global momentum building behind WDS as a premier defense exhibition. Taking place from 8-12 February 2026, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, WDS 2026, held under the theme of 'The Future of Defense Integration,' will once again serve as a vital platform for showcasing the latest advancements across all five defense domains — air, land, sea, space, and security. Building on the success of its previous editions, WDS 2026 is attracting unprecedented interest from both local and international defense stakeholders. WDS 2026 is expected to feature exhibitor participation from an estimated 80 countries, including new participants such as but not limited to, Japan, Portugal, Uzbekistan and Finland. Expanded global reach further solidifies WDS's position as a truly international platform for collaboration and innovation. Andrew Pearcey, CEO, stated: "The overwhelming demand for exhibition space is a testament to the show's growing reputation as a must-attend event for those shaping the next era of defense and global security. Our presence at IDEF provides an excellent opportunity to connect with key industry players and highlight the remarkable progress we've made in preparing for WDS 2026.' Additionally, WDS 2026 unveils its Content Theater themes, a key show feature held on days 2-5 of the event. Attendees can anticipate engaging presentations exploring critical topics driving the industry. Prepare for insightful discussions on themes such as: Translating Operational Requirements into Technological Advantage, Accelerating Breakthrough Technologies in Defense, Integrating and Operationalizing Emerging Technologies at Speed, and Powering National Production and Defense Exports. The Content Theater program complements a suite of show features, including the new Future Defense Lab, Unmanned Systems Zone, Naval Zone, Saudi Supply Chain Zone, and WDS News Network. With limited space remaining, WDS encourages interested exhibitors to secure their participation as soon as possible. For further details about the World Defense Show, visit:
Zawya
21-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Saudi Arabia's global reputation shifts positively, driven by Vision 2030 and economic diversification
Saudi Arabia's global reputation has seen a significant positive transformation, according to CARMA's 5th Edition of the Kingdom Reputation Report. The report indicates a notable increase in positive sentiment and a decline in negative media coverage, largely attributed to the country's Vision 2030 initiatives, economic diversification, and growing soft power. The latest insights from CARMA's Report include: A Surge in Positive Global Sentiment Positive mainstream media coverage of Saudi Arabia increased by 25% in 2024, compared to the previous year. Since 2020, negative media coverage has declined by 55%, signaling a decisive reputational shift. CARMA's survey, encompassing respondents from the UK, the USA, India, Singapore, and Russia, revealed that 59% expressed positive sentiment towards Saudi Arabia. Additionally, 37% of respondents reported that their views have become more favourable over the past 12 months. Vision 2030 Shaping The Narrative Vision 2030 dominated international discourse in 2024, directly tying into 60% of all global media coverage about Saudi Arabia, the highest share recorded to date. For the first time since 2020, coverage of Saudi Arabia's economic and social transformation under Vision 2030 has outpaced political discourse. Events, Tourism and Entertainment Drive Global Interest Media coverage of Saudi Arabia's economy rose by 77% in 2024, driven by events like the Future Investment Initiative (FII)LEAP tech conference, and World Defense Show. Tourism and entertainment media coverage increasing by 60% compared to 2023, representing a strong rebound and highlighting Saudi Arabia's growing appeal as a destination. While overall media volume on sports decreased by 7%, it still accounts for 11% of all media coverage, maintaining its significant influence. High profile sports events, such as the announcement of hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup, continue to generate headlines and build international connections. Influencing the Influencers Influential figures like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, MrBeast, and Elon Musk amplified engagement through their posts, showcasing Saudi Arabia's evolving cultural, sporting, and entertainment landscape. Saudi Arabia's leadership emerged as influential figures in global media, widely portrayed in a positive light for driving transformative reforms, advancing landmark mega-projects, and deepening regional diplomacy. The public survey found that 59% of respondents were interested in visiting Saudi Arabia, 60% would consider doing business there, and52% were open to working in the Kingdom. CARMA's report, which utilizes AI analysis, sentiment tracking, human interpretation, and considers international media, influential social voices, multi-market public surveys, and AI-driven search trends, provides a comprehensive view of Saudi Arabia's evolving perception. This shift reflects global recognition of Saudi Arabia's determined efforts toward economic, social, and cultural reinvention. About CARMA Expertly helping PR and communications professionals demonstrate the value of their work, CARMA collaborates with both global brands and local organisations across a diverse range of industries. CARMA equips PR and communications professionals with the data, insights, and context needed to make better-informed business technology provides the most comprehensive monitoring of print, broadcast, online and social media in every continent, across 130+ content partners and 100+ languages. Discover CARMA's suite of solutions, our team, and the work we do. Joumana El Tarabulsi Group Account Director, Cicero & Bernay Communication Consultancy Email: Joumana@ Ahmed Dahduli Managing Director, CARMA – Riyadh Email: For inquiries and more information, please contact
Campaign ME
14-05-2025
- Business
- Campaign ME
Memac Ogilvy KSA
AGENCY BIO With more than 40 years of experience in Saudi Arabia, we are deeply rooted in the Kingdom's cultural landscape and proud to be trusted partners to a diverse portfolio of clients. Our proven track record with leading brands highlights our ability to manage, high-profile accounts. As part of a global creative network, our longstanding presence in Saudi Arabia gives us an unparalleled understanding of the local market. This deep expertise is further strengthened by Ogilvy's global reach and decades of industry leadership, enabling us to deliver impactful both locally and globally. Services: Advertising, public relations, experience, health and consulting Key clients: Ministry of Culture, Green Riyadh, IKEA, World Defense Show, Avilease, SAMI, Asfar, RCU, Expo 2030, Lab7 (Aramco), Diriyah, Ula Development Company, Nestlé Awards won: MEPRA – Likea (Best PR Campaign, Best vs Budget Campaign)
Leaders
11-05-2025
- Business
- Leaders
Made in Saudi: First THAAD Components Completed in Jeddah
Saudi Arabia has successfully completed the first domestically manufactured components for the THAAD missile defense system launcher in Jeddah. This milestone marks a significant advancement in the Kingdom's efforts to localize its defense industry. The breakthrough was announced during a recent meeting at Arabian International Co. for Steel Structures, attended by senior defense officials and industry leaders. Prominent attendees included Tim Cahill, president of missiles and fire control at Lockheed Martin; Nawaf Al-Bawardi, assistant deputy of the General Authority for Military Industries; and Wasim Attieh, president of AIC. The meeting focused on reviewing progress in local manufacturing, following a strategic partnership between Saudi Arabia and Lockheed Martin. This collaboration aims to enhance the Kingdom's capacity to produce critical Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) components domestically. Supporting Saudi Vision 2030 Goals The achievement follows two contracts signed at the 2024 World Defense Show in Riyadh, part of a broader plan to localize missile system components. It builds on initiatives announced at the 2022 show to produce missile containers and launch platforms within Saudi Arabia. Lockheed Martin highlighted AIC's advanced manufacturing and precision welding capabilities as vital to this progress. Lockheed Martin emphasized the importance of this development, noting the partnership's role in strengthening Saudi Arabia's defense industrial base and building supply chain resilience. Cahill expressed pride in the milestone, detailing its significance for both nations. He stated, 'This program supports Saudi Vision 2030, regional defense, and generates high-quality jobs in the US.' Attieh praised Lockheed Martin's cooperation and commitment to the project, highlighting the company's support with tools and training. He said, 'I look forward to a safer future for Saudi Arabia and thank GAMI for its ongoing support.' Saudi Defense Manufacturing Growth Saudi Arabia has steadily increased its defense manufacturing capabilities, raising military spending localization from 4% in 2018 to 19.35%. The Kingdom aims to exceed 50% by 2030, aligning with Vision 2030's goal of a self-sufficient defense sector. The collaboration with Lockheed Martin exemplifies these ambitions. Lockheed Martin's THAAD system is a cutting-edge missile defense platform capable of intercepting ballistic missiles at various altitudes. It provides reliable protection against short, medium, and intermediate-range threats. The system has demonstrated a high success rate in tests and operational deployment. The ongoing cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Lockheed Martin underscores the Kingdom's commitment to developing an independent military industrial base. It also reinforces its strategic alliances, positioning Saudi Arabia as a regional leader in defense innovation and self-reliance. Short link : Post Views: 19
Gulf Insider
10-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Riyadh's Malham Airport Designated For General Aviation Operations
The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has announced the allocation of a new airport in the capital, Riyadh, dedicated to general aviation operations. Located in the northern area of Malham — approximately 70 kilometers from downtown Riyadh — the new Malham Airport marks a strategic addition to the Kingdom's growing aviation infrastructure. Spanning 140,000 square meters, the airport is designed to handle more than 25,000 general aviation flights annually. It will serve as a key hub for private jet owners, business aviation operators, and service providers, enhancing Saudi Arabia's capacity to host international business and entertainment events. Malham, the airport's location, is rapidly emerging as a center for major global events, including the World Defense Show and the LEAP tech conference. The establishment of an airport in this area supports its transformation into a world-class destination for international gatherings. GACA stated that the move aligns with the goals of the National Aviation Strategy, which seeks to boost the general aviation sector by increasing the number of operators, improving services, localizing maintenance and repair companies, and strengthening the sector's contribution to the national economy. The authority emphasized that Malham Airport will offer a fully integrated environment tailored for private aviation, helping to solidify Riyadh's position as a regional and global aviation hub.
