The Chairman of the Board of Directors of "SOFEX", retired Major General Engineer Ayman Ahmed Al-Batran, confirmed in his speech during the opening that the exhibition has established its position as an international platform that brings together governments, armed forces, leaders of defense and security industries, and innovators from all over the world, allowing for the exchange of expertise, showcasing modern technologies, and opening broader horizons for strategic partnerships.
Emphasizing that the fifteenth edition of the exhibition supports international dialogue and innovation, and consolidates Jordan's position as an active regional hub for cooperation and exchange of expertise in the defense and security sectors.
The exhibition continues for three days, with the participation of hundreds of delegations representing about 75 countries, and nearly 350 exhibiting companies, in a presence that reflects international interest in the rapid developments in defense and security industries, and provides opportunities to meet officials, experts, and specialized companies to discuss areas of cooperation.
The "SOFEX 2026" edition highlights artificial intelligence applications and drones, alongside modern defense and security systems and multi-domain operations, while the Royal Medical Services pavilion showcases modern medical technologies and equipment, reflecting the development of medical services and the importance of integration between defense, medical, and technological fields.
The exhibition coincided with the "MESOC 2026" conference, which was held yesterday, Monday, under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Al Hussein, with specialized international participation, to discuss developments in defense and security fields and exchange expertise.
Aqaba's repeated hosting of the exhibition confirms its ability to organize major international events, benefiting from its strategic location on the Red Sea, its infrastructure, advanced facilities, and logistical services, in addition to its position as an economic and tourism gateway for Jordan.
The impact of "SOFEX 2026" is not limited to defense and security industries, but extends to economic and service sectors in Aqaba, including hotels, transport, restaurants, and trade, which benefit from the movement of delegations, participants, and the activity accompanying the exhibition, providing opportunities for small and medium enterprises and local service providers.
The exhibition enhances Aqaba's presence on the map of international conferences and events, and highlights Jordan's ability to attract specialized events, while broad international participation provides opportunities for cooperation and knowledge exchange, in parallel with supporting economic and service activity in the city.
