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RIYADH: The third World Defense Show will be opened in Riyadh on Feb. 8 next year by Prince Khalid bin Salman, the Kingdom’s defense minister and vice chairman of the General Authority for Military Industries.

The international five-day event, which will focus on the future, will be supported by relevant ministries, authorities and strategic public and private sector entities.

Thanking King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their patronage and support of the military industries sector, GAMI Gov. Ahmad Al-Ohali said: “The royal patronage is an extension of the leadership’s unwavering support to localizing 50 percent of military expenditure in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

“This commitment to innovation and cooperation exemplifies our dedication to fostering global partnerships, leveraging our strategic location and harnessing the Kingdom’s industrial capabilities.”

He added: “Together, we are shaping the future of defense, ensuring stability and growth for our nation.”

World Defense Show CEO Andrew Pearcey said: “The 2026 edition will build on collaboration between government and industry, creating an environment where the global defense supply chain can meet, share ideas and do business.

“With expanded venue capacity, updated content and a focus on technology transfer and talent development, the 2026 show will bring together leaders, innovators and emerging talent to guide the industry’s future.”

The 2024 edition featured 773 exhibitors from 76 countries, hosted 441 international delegations, facilitated SR26 billion ($7 billion) in deals and attracted 106,000 trade visits, building on the success of the inaugural 2022 event.

RIYADH: The new British ambassador to �������� Stephen Hitchen has now formally started his role, the UK’s embassy in Riyadh announced on Tuesday.

He has moved to �������� with his family and succeeds Neil Crompton who completed his tenure in July.

On his arrival in the Saudi capital, Hitchen commented: “My appointment as British ambassador to �������� is the greatest honor of my life. Our two kingdoms have enjoyed a long friendship, and we both have proud histories and high ambitions for the future.”

“My family and I have already enjoyed the famous Saudi hospitality, and we look forward to exploring your beautiful mountains, desert, towns and cities,” the ambassador added.

He brings extensive Middle East experience to the role, having previously served as the British ambassador to Iraq from 2023 to 2025, and as Director for Middle East and North Africa (National Security) within the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office from 2016 to 2019.

His career has included postings across the region, including Kuwait, Jordan, and Egypt, along with specialist roles focusing on Iran and counter-terrorism.