1st Arabia and Fira Barcelona have officially announced the launch of ABOFA – Aqaba Blue Ocean: Future in Action, a major international event dedicated to the blue economy. The inaugural edition will take place from 9–12 September 2026 at the Aqaba International Exhibition Center (AIEC) in Aqaba, Jordan.
Organized in partnership with the Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC), ABOFA is positioned to become the region’s flagship platform for the diving, marine technology and coastal lifestyle industries. The event reflects the increasing strategic importance of the blue economy across the Middle East, while reinforcing Aqaba’s emergence as a regional hub for marine innovation, sustainable tourism and ocean-based industries.
ABOFA will place a strong focus on the diving sector and dive equipment, alongside ocean technology, marine sciences, water sports, boating lifestyle, and adventure tourism destinations. The event is set to attract leading international brands, innovators, industry experts and influential global personalities, creating a high-level forum for collaboration, investment and knowledge exchange.
Designed as both a B2B and B2C platform, the exhibition will host global exhibitors and visitors from across the region and beyond. Live demonstrations, immersive experiences and interactive showcases will offer hands-on access to the latest developments in diving equipment, watersports innovation and marine technologies. Curated networking sessions and business development opportunities will further support commercial growth across the sector.
Sustainability will be central to ABOFA’s mission. The event will spotlight Jordan’s marine conservation initiatives and their broader impact on global industry practices, aligning environmental stewardship with technological advancement and tourism development. By bringing together policy, innovation and market leaders, ABOFA aims to help shape long-term, sustainable pathways for the blue economy.
The announcement follows the formal signing of an agreement between Aqaba Development Corporation, 1st Arabia and Fira Barcelona, officially appointing 1st Arabia and Fira Barcelona as organisers of the event. The partnership combines Fira Barcelona’s international exhibition expertise with 1st Arabia’s strong regional track record in delivering high-profile global events.
Companies and industry stakeholders interested in participating can now register via the official event website:
www.abofa.jo/book-your-space
Further announcements regarding the conference programme, international partnerships and featured speakers will be released in the coming months via www.abofa.jo
