Khaberni - The city of Aqaba is preparing to host the most prominent international event in the diving and water sports sector, the “ABOFA - Aqaba Blue: Ocean Future in Action” exhibition, which will take place from September 9 to 12, 2026, at the Aqaba International Exhibition Center (AIEC), with an expected participation of about 4000 participants from 25 countries.
This event forms a leading international platform that brings together a selection of the world's leading companies, experts, and innovators in the fields of diving and water activities, to showcase the latest technologies and experiences in this rapidly growing sector, amidst increasing global interest in the marine economy.
The exhibition is organized by the Arab Company for Conference and Exhibition Management, hosted by the Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC), and in strategic partnership with Fira Barcelona, one of the leading global entities specialized in organizing international exhibitions.
The exhibition represents a strategic step to enhance Aqaba's position as a regional center for the blue economy and water sports, benefiting from its unique location on the Gulf of Aqaba, which ranks among the most diverse and rich marine environments worldwide.
“ABOFA 2026” highlights the growing opportunities in the blue economy, viewed as a sustainable developmental model focusing on the optimal use of marine resources while preserving ecosystems, and supporting vital sectors including marine tourism, technology, maritime transport, and renewable energy.
The exhibition covers a wide range of sectors related to the sea, including diving and underwater activities, marine technology and innovation, water sports and adventures, underwater photography, boats and marine equipment, along with tourism and marine lifestyle, education and training, startups, and interactive events.
The event is expected to see broad international participation from specialized companies, experts, and investors, alongside tourism and marine activity companies, enhancing networking opportunities and the establishment of partnerships and exchange of expertise at a global level.
The exhibition will include live shows and interactive experiences, in addition to direct meetings between companies, experts, and investors, opening new horizons for collaboration and investment in this growing sector.
The organization of this event comes at a time when the Red Sea is experiencing rapid growth in investments related to marine tourism and the blue economy, further enhancing the significance of Aqaba as a primary destination on the global events map.
The “ABOFA” exhibition aims to solidify Aqaba’s position as an international hub combining marine sports, technology, and tourism, placing it on the map of the world’s leading events in this sector.
