Jordan’s first international Blue Economy platform continues to gain global momentum, with exhibitors from 11 countries and leading marine organizations already confirmed.
International interest in ABOFA (Aqaba Blue: Ocean Future in Action) continues to grow as the event prepares for its inaugural edition in Aqaba, Jordan. Organizers have announced that more than 80% of the available exhibition space has already been allocated, several months before the event opens its doors from 9–12 September 2026.
The strong early response positions ABOFA as one of the most anticipated new marine industry events in the Red Sea region, bringing together stakeholders from the diving, marine technology, boating, water sports, tourism, conservation, and Blue Economy sectors.
Key Highlights
- More than 80% of exhibition space has already been reserved.
- Exhibitors and organizations from 11 countries have confirmed their participation.
- International organizations, including PADI, The International Sea Keepers Society, Reef Check, HEPCA, and the Malaysia International Dive Expo (MIDE), have joined the event.
- Jordan continues to strengthen its position as an emerging regional hub for marine innovation and sustainable ocean development.
- Limited exhibition opportunities remain ahead of the September 2026 event.
A New International Platform for the Blue Economy
ABOFA has been created to provide an international platform where industry leaders, government representatives, researchers, tourism professionals, environmental organizations, and technology companies can collaborate on the future of the marine sector.
Hosted in Aqaba on the shores of the Red Sea, the event will showcase innovations across marine technology, sustainable tourism, water sports, boating, conservation, and ocean research while creating new opportunities for regional and international partnerships.
Global Organizations Join the Initiative
The event has attracted support from several internationally recognized organizations, reflecting growing confidence in Jordan’s vision for developing a regional Blue Economy platform.
Confirmed partners and supporting organizations include:
- PADI
- The International SeaKeepers Society
- Reef Check
- HEPCA (Egypt)
- Malaysia International Dive Expo (MIDE)
- Royal Jordanian Marine Sports Federation
- Aqaba Marine Reserve
- Chamber of Diving and Water Sports, CDWS (Egypt)
Their participation highlights the increasing international profile of ABOFA and reinforces Aqaba’s role as one of the Red Sea’s leading destinations for marine tourism, conservation, and innovation.
International Participation Continues to Expand
Organizers report that exhibitors from 11 countries have already secured exhibition space, representing businesses and organizations from across the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and North America.
The growing international participation reflects increasing interest in Jordan’s marine sector and the country’s ambition to become a regional meeting point for sustainable ocean industries and cross-border collaboration.
Industry Perspective
Commenting on the strong response, Bilal Al Barmawi, CEO of 1st Arabia, said:
“In close collaboration with the Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC) and our key stakeholders, we have seen an extraordinary response since day one of leasing, with over 80% of exhibition space already allocated. This overwhelming demand has exceeded our expectations for the inaugural edition and demonstrates both the potential of the regional market and the importance of creating a dedicated platform for the future of the Red Sea marine industry.”
Limited Exhibition Opportunities Remain
With most exhibition space already allocated, organizations interested in exhibiting, sponsoring, or partnering with ABOFA 2026 are encouraged to secure the remaining opportunities before the event reaches full capacity.
ABOFA (Aqaba Blue: Ocean Future in Action) will take place from 9–12 September 2026 at the Aqaba International Exhibition Centre (AIEC). The event is hosted by the Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC) and organized by 1st Arabia for Conferences and Exhibitions, in partnership with Fira Barcelona International and the Salón Náutico Internacional de Barcelona.
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Operations and Marketing Manager at Diventures, holds an advanced diver certification and writes outstanding articles for both the website and digital publications. She contributes to every step of the process with her creativity and organizational skills.
