stc group, Saudi Arabia’s leading digital enabler, has returned as the principal partner of World Defense Show (WDS) 2026, the Kingdom’s flagship defence and security exhibition.

The event opened in Riyadh and runs until 12 February, bringing together government representatives, industry leaders and innovators from around the world.

During the exhibition, specialized by stc, the group’s arm focused on mission-critical communications, is showcasing its Mission-Critical Communications (MCC) solution. Designed to deliver secure, high-performance connectivity, the solution provides resilient communications in fast-moving and high-risk environments. While essential for defence operations, the technology also supports other critical sectors where uninterrupted and trusted networks are vital for command execution, operational coordination and mission success.

A central feature of the showcase is the MCC Dome, an immersive exhibition experience that presents real-world mission-critical scenarios. The experience is divided into four interactive zones, beginning with a Crisis Response Simulation that demonstrates multi-agency coordination and highlights how mission-critical networks enable reliable communication and faster, more informed decision-making.

The Satellite Integration Zone focuses on hardened infrastructure and redundancy, designed to extend coverage and ensure service continuity across the Kingdom. This is followed by the Device Zone, which displays a range of rugged, field-ready equipment used by mission-critical personnel. The experience concludes with the Future of Mission-Critical Communications Zone, highlighting emerging technologies including AI-enabled incident prediction, drones, robotics and next-generation critical communication solutions.

In addition to the main display, specialized by stc is presenting dedicated use cases illustrating how mission-critical communications are applied across public safety, energy, healthcare, transportation, entertainment and giga-projects. In these environments, the technology supports emergency medical response, energy infrastructure management and public safety at large-scale events, where timing, reliability and coordination are paramount.

Riyadh Mouawd, chief business officer at stc group, said the event provides a strategic platform to demonstrate how secure connectivity supports real-world operations and national resilience. Khaled Aldharrab, chief executive officer at specialized by stc, added that the group’s responsibility is to ensure vital sectors remain connected during large-scale events, emergencies and complex operations.

stc group’s continued partnership with World Defense Show underscores its role in enabling secure, sector-wide transformation through advanced digital infrastructure, supporting operational readiness, digital sovereignty and long-term resilience across the Kingdom and the wider region.

Lockheed Martin has announced the opening of a new software factory in Riyadh, marking a significant step in expanding advanced defence software development capabilities within Saudi Arabia. The facility introduces the company’s software development ecosystem to the Kingdom, enabling the rapid creation of sovereign software applications and their integration into Lockheed Martin platforms and systems.

The Riyadh software factory forms part of Lockheed Martin’s wider transformation of its command-and-control capabilities. The company is shifting towards advanced software architecture supported by continuous integration and delivery pipelines, alongside a distributed software factory model. This approach is designed to create a flexible command-and-control environment capable of supporting scalable tactical, operational and strategic solutions, while allowing third-party applications to be integrated securely and efficiently.

According to Lockheed Martin, the model also supports host-nation software development within an interoperable command-and-control ecosystem, strengthening local capability while maintaining system security. The company said this approach enables faster deployment of mission-relevant digital solutions and improved adaptability to evolving operational requirements.

“This is a strong example of what can be achieved when Lockheed Martin works closely with Saudi industry and academia to develop world-class, integrated command-and-control capabilities in the Kingdom,” said Joseph Rank, chief executive for Lockheed Martin Saudi Arabia and Africa. “For more than 60 years, Lockheed Martin has partnered with Saudi Arabia in support of regional deterrence and stability. The software factory is one of several initiatives focused on building local capacity and accelerating the transfer of advanced technical expertise, while supporting U.S. jobs and strengthening the resilience and global reach of the U.S. defense industrial base.”

The software factory has already been used to demonstrate practical outcomes through collaboration with local industry. In one early application, Saudi interns at Lockheed Martin worked alongside engineers from SAMI Advanced Electronics Company to develop and demonstrate a new capability in under two weeks. The solution integrated commercial aircraft location data into Lockheed Martin’s CommandIQ common operating picture, highlighting the potential for rapid development through joint delivery teams.

“SAMI Advanced Electronics Company is committed to strengthening the Kingdom’s sovereign defense capabilities by deepening local engineering expertise and accelerating the delivery of mission-critical digital solutions,” said Eng. Ziad H. Al-Musallam, chief executive officer of SAMI Advanced Electronics Company. “This collaboration with Lockheed Martin’s Software Factory shows how joint delivery teams can rapidly integrate advanced software into operational command-and-control environments while transferring knowledge to Saudi talent and industry.”

Alongside the software factory, Lockheed Martin is also establishing an in-country Talent Studio aimed at developing digital and enterprise capabilities within the Saudi workforce. The programme will provide structured, hands-on training through early-career engineering and leadership-transition pathways. From 2026, the initiative aims to graduate thousands of digital enterprise engineers and leaders, supporting Saudi Arabia’s long-term industrial and workforce development objectives.

The Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority (DECCA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Domus Group, an events and conferences specialist focused on vertical aviation solutions and drone technologies, to strengthen the use of advanced aviation systems in support of environmental sustainability.

The agreement is designed to enhance knowledge exchange and encourage local and international companies to introduce cutting-edge aviation and drone solutions that contribute to environmental protection and climate action in Dubai. Under the MoU, DECCA will collaborate with Domus Group to explore global best practices and assess how emerging technologies can be adapted to meet the Emirate’s specific environmental needs.

The partnership aligns with DECCA’s strategic priorities to advance environmental research and innovation, while embedding advanced technologies into evidence-led decision-making. By leveraging the latest developments in drone and aviation systems, the authority aims to enhance its capabilities across monitoring, data collection and policy implementation.

“Technology is now one of the most important enablers of environmental action,” said His Excellency Ahmed Mohammed bin Thani, Director General of DECCA. “Whether in conserving terrestrial and marine biodiversity, providing Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) systems, or supporting food security and sustainable agriculture, drone technologies can play a key role in enhancing our environmental work. Dubai has long been a pioneer in adopting advanced technologies across sectors, while the Unmanned Aircrafts Law offers clear operational framework. Today, as we set environmental policies and plans, drone solutions are a key enabler of realising our environmental vision. By surveying the latest global solutions, we can develop local solutions to suit our environment.”

Domus Group highlighted the importance of the collaboration in reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global hub for technology adoption. “As a home-grown group founded in Dubai and expanded across the world, we are committed to harnessing world-class technologies that reinforce Dubai’s international leadership in tech adoption,” said Maysoon Abu Alhoul, Managing Director of Domus Group. “With the Emirate’s strong commitment to environmental action, we are confident the drone sector will open new opportunities to support environmental protection in Dubai.”

Drone technologies are increasingly recognised for their effectiveness in environmental protection, offering high-precision surveys and detailed environmental mapping across diverse ecosystems. These include mangroves, seagrass beds and coastal habitats, as well as desert and mountain reserves, providing critical insights that support conservation and restoration initiatives.

In addition, drones generate valuable data for plume tracking, air-quality analysis and carbon sink assessment in mangrove areas. They also enable precise shoreline mapping and marine sampling, supporting more accurate environmental assessments. Beyond data collection, drone technologies strengthen monitoring and enforcement efforts by enhancing surveillance capabilities and supporting the detection of environmental violations and unauthorised fishing activities.

The rapid rollout of smart cities, mega developments and digitally enabled infrastructure across the Middle East is creating a new challenge for governments and developers alike: security gaps that often emerge at the handover stage, when responsibility shifts from construction to operations.

As buildings become more connected and complex, ensuring consistent, scalable and cloud-ready physical security is increasingly critical.

Against this backdrop, AI-powered physical security specialist Verkada has announced its expansion into the Middle East, establishing a Dubai-based office and appointing Fred Crehan as Head of Middle East. The move reflects growing regional demand for modern, cloud-based security platforms that can support smart infrastructure throughout its lifecycle, from construction and commissioning through to long-term operations.

“The Middle East is experiencing rapid urban development, large-scale infrastructure projects, and a strong focus on security and innovation,” said Eric Salava, Chief Revenue Officer at Verkada. “Verkada’s cloud-based platform aligns well with the region’s ambitions, and Fred’s deep understanding of the local landscape and proven track record of scaling high-growth businesses make him the ideal leader to bring our integrated platform to market.”

Crehan brings more than 25 years of enterprise technology experience and was most recently with Confluent, where he led the launch of its Dubai office and built a regional partner ecosystem. In his new role, he will focus on supporting organisations grappling with the operational realities of smart buildings, particularly where legacy security systems struggle to keep pace with digital transformation.

"Safety is a top priority in the Middle East, driven by a commitment to world-class tourism and the rapid development of new urban centers," said Fred Crehan, Head of Middle East at Verkada. "As cloud adoption continues to accelerate, many organizations are looking for modern solutions that can help them overcome traditional resource constraints. Verkada’s platform is uniquely positioned to support government, hospitality, retail, and logistics providers, as well as the large-scale construction and real estate sectors."

While Verkada already serves global customers with operations in the Middle East, the Dubai office marks its first dedicated regional presence. The company plans to expand its local team, with initial hires focused on sales engineering and leadership, as it deepens engagement with regional partners and end users.

Verkada’s Middle East expansion builds on strong international momentum following a recent investment from CapitalG, Alphabet’s independent growth fund, which valued the company at $5.8bn. The funding is intended to accelerate AI innovation and support its growing base of more than 30,000 customers worldwide.

As smart infrastructure continues to reshape the region’s urban landscape, Verkada is positioning its cloud-based security platform as a way to close critical gaps at handover and beyond, helping operators manage increasingly complex, connected environments with greater visibility and control.