From September 9 to 12, 2026, the city of Aqaba in Jordan will host a new strategic event poised to redefine the regional balance of the blue economy: ABOFA – Aqaba Blue Ocean: Future in ActionConceived as a key international event, ABOFA has immediately established itself as the future convergence point for the diving, marine technology, ocean science and related industries. lifestyle coastal in the Middle East.
Organized at Aqaba International Exhibition Center (AIEC)The event is supported by a leading institutional and industrial alliance bringing together 1st ArabiaFira Barcelona and the Aqaba Development Corporation. This collaboration combines Fira Barcelona’s global expertise in international trade fairs with 1st Arabia’s in-depth knowledge of regional dynamics, with the clear objective of positioning Aqaba as an emerging hub of the blue economy in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Red Sea.
ABOFA, a regional showcase for the blue economy
ABOFA was designed as a cross-sector event, both a high-level B2B platform and an immersive experience open to professionals and enthusiasts alike. The show will cover all the key verticals of the contemporary blue economy: diving equipment and technologies, marine science, innovative ocean solutions, watersports, recreational boating, adventure tourism, and environmentally sustainable diving destinations.
More than just a trade show, ABOFA positions itself as a catalyst for investment and partnerships. International exhibitors will present cutting-edge solutions, ranging from marine conservation technologies and innovations applied to nautical leisure, to technical equipment for diving professionals and specialized tourism operators.
Aqaba, a strategic territory between environment and innovation
The choice of Aqaba is neither symbolic nor opportunistic. Located on the shores of the Red Sea, the city benefits from a marine ecosystem renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and environmental resilience. For several years, Jordan has been multiplying its initiatives in the areas of coral reef protection, sustainable coastal management, and responsible tourism development.
Jordan's only coastal city, Aqaba For over 4,000 years, Aqaba has occupied a major strategic position on the gulf that bears its name, at the natural interface between Asia, Africa, and the Levant. From antiquity, the region established itself as a key port on trade routes linking South Arabia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean world, particularly for copper, spices, and frankincense. During the Islamic era, the city of Ayla, founded in the 7th century, became a structured urban center and an essential transit point for pilgrims traveling to Mecca. Later, under the Mamluks and then the Ottoman Empire, Aqaba acquired iconic fortifications, including the 16th-century fort, still visible today, which testifies to its defensive and maritime role.
This historical depth now coexists with a decidedly contemporary tourism identity. Bordered by one of the best-preserved coral reefs in the Red Sea, Aqaba is internationally renowned for the clarity of its waters, the richness of its marine biodiversity, and the quality of its dive sites, accessible to both experts and amateurs. The city also benefits from its status as a special economic zone, fostering the development of modern infrastructure, upscale resorts, marinas, and facilities dedicated to nautical tourism and the lifestyle coastal. Added to this is an exceptional geographical location, just a few hours from major sites such as Petra and the Wadi Rum desert, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, which reinforces Aqaba's attractiveness as a comprehensive destination, blending culture, nature, adventure and lifestyleIt is within this historical and territorial continuity that Aqaba is today establishing itself as a credible laboratory for the blue economy and the sustainable relationship between man, the sea and innovation.
ABOFA is fully aligned with this trajectory. The event will highlight the Hashemite Kingdom's commitments to marine conservation and their impact on international industry standards. It aims to demonstrate that technological innovation, economic growth, and ocean preservation can coexist in a coherent and sustainable model.
An immersive experience designed for decision-makers and brands
ABOFA's format is distinguished by its fully experiential approach. Real-world demonstrations, interactive experiences, product testing areas, and technical simulations will allow visitors to gain a concrete understanding of the innovations presented. In parallel, a program of conferences and professional meetings will foster exchanges between decision-makers, industry experts, investors, and international opinion leaders.
This dual focus – business and preservation – positions ABOFA as a high value-added event, capable of attracting both industrialists and premium tourism players, institutions, deeptech start-ups and environmentally conscious brands. lifestyle nautical.
ABOFA, a new geopolitical marker of the blue economy in the Middle East
At the regional level, ABOFA aims to become the leading event for all stakeholders in the blue economy. In a context where issues related to oceans, water, and marine ecosystems are taking on a global strategic dimension, Aqaba intends to play a neutral and structuring role between Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
Interested companies and institutions can now reserve their space via the event's official website. Further announcements regarding the conference program, international partnerships, and renowned speakers will be revealed progressively on the official platform.
ABOFA – Aqaba Blue Ocean: Future in Action It is thus shaping up to be much more than a trade fair: a strong signal sent to the global industry, affirming that the future of the blue economy is now being thought of in Aqaba, at the crossroads of innovation, high-end tourism and environmental responsibility.
Patrick Koune
Photos: ABOFA 2026
