1st Arabia and Fira Barcelona Announce ABOFA – “Aqaba Blue Ocean: Future in Action,” the Region’s New Flagship Blue Economy Event

Aqaba, Jordan — 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, set to take place from September 9 to 12, 2026, at the Aqaba International Exhibition Center (AIEC) in Aqaba, Jordan.

Organized in partnership with the Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC), ABOFA is designed to become the region’s flagship platform and a key global meeting point for the diving, marine technology, and coastal lifestyle industries. The event reflects the growing strategic emphasis on advancing the diving and marine technology sectors, while reinforcing Aqaba’s position as an emerging regional hub for the blue economy.

ABOFA will focus on a wide range of sectors, including diving equipment and services, ocean technology and marine sciences, water sports, boating lifestyle, diving destinations, adventure tourism, and coastal experiences. The event will bring together leading global brands, innovators, industry experts, and influential international figures, creating a strategic platform to showcase cutting-edge marine solutions and foster partnerships that drive innovation and investment across the sector.

The exhibition is expected to attract international exhibitors and visitors from across the region and beyond, featuring live demonstrations and interactive experiences designed for both B2B and B2C audiences. Attendees will gain hands-on access to the latest innovations in diving, watersports, and marine technologies, alongside curated networking opportunities and targeted business development initiatives.

In parallel, ABOFA will place a strong emphasis on sustainable development and marine conservation, highlighting Jordan’s efforts in protecting marine ecosystems and their broader global impact on the industry. The event aims to further position Aqaba as a dynamic convergence point where environmental stewardship, technology, and tourism come together to shape the future of the blue economy.

The announcement follows the signing of an agreement between Aqaba Development Corporation, 1st Arabia, and Fira Barcelona, officially appointing 1st Arabia and Fira Barcelona as the event’s organizers. The partnership combines Fira Barcelona’s global exhibition expertise with 1st Arabia’s strong regional capabilities in delivering high-profile international 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 program, international partnerships, and featured speakers will be released in the coming period through www.abofa.jo.