Aqaba hosts a monumental global water sports and diving event | News
The coastal city of Aqaba is preparing to host one of the most prominent international events in the diving and water sports sector with the launch of “ABOFA – Aqaba Blue Ocean Future in Action”, scheduled for September 9 to 12, 2026 at the Aqaba International Exhibition Center (AIEC).
The event is expected to bring together around 4,000 participants from 25 countries, putting Aqaba at the center of a growing global movement around water sports, underwater exploration and the blue economy.
ABOFA 2026 will serve as a high-level international platform uniting leading global companies, professional divers, water sports specialists and industry innovators to showcase the latest developments, equipment and experiences shaping the future of the industry.
The exhibition is organized by Arabia First for Conferences and Exhibitions, organized by the Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC), and held in strategic partnership with Fira Barcelona, one of the world’s leading exhibition organizers.
The event represents a strategic step in strengthening Aqaba’s position as a regional hub for water sports and the blue economy, taking advantage of its unique location along the Gulf of Aqaba – one of the world’s most diverse and pristine marine ecosystems.
ABOFA 2026 will highlight the rapid growth of the maritime sports and diving industry while highlighting the role of the blue economy as a sustainable model that balances economic development with environmental conservation.
The event will feature a wide range of water sports and activities, including diving, underwater exploration, water sports and maritime adventure experiences, in addition to the latest innovations in marine technology, equipment and underwater imaging.
A strong international attendance is expected, with the participation of specialist companies, athletes, experts and investors, creating a global platform for networking, partnerships and knowledge exchange within the maritime sports ecosystem.
Live demonstrations, immersive experiences and direct engagement between industry stakeholders are expected to create new opportunities for collaboration and investment, further accelerating the growth of this dynamic sector.
The event comes at a time of increasing global momentum around water sports and tourism in the Red Sea, reinforcing Aqaba’s status as a major destination on the international sports and events map.
Through ABOFA, Aqaba aims to establish itself as a global hub where water sports, innovation and tourism intersect, while strengthening the city’s reputation as a host of world-class events in this fast-growing sector.
