AI video analytics at the edge
What ai video analytics at the edge means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
Building on the success of SOFEX 2024, SOFEX 2026 returns as a platform for defence, security, and special operations, uniting leaders to showcase innovation and partnerships.
TL;DR
- 1Dates and Venue: SOFEX JORDAN 2026 takes place from 27-29 October 2026 at the Aqaba International Exhibition & Convention Centre.
- 2Scale and Focus: This event is a key platform for defense and security industries, showcasing the latest innovations.
- 3Organiser: The event is organized by SOFEX, with registration available on their official website.
- 4Buyer Authority: Attendees include military officials, defense contractors, and security professionals.
- 5Entry: Registration details will be available closer to the event date.
Why visit
Visiting SOFEX JORDAN 2026 offers a unique opportunity to connect with industry leaders and explore cutting-edge technologies in defense and security. Attendees can gain insights into the latest trends and innovations, network with key stakeholders, and discover solutions that can enhance operational capabilities.
Why exhibit
Exhibiting at SOFEX JORDAN 2026 provides companies with direct access to influential decision-makers in the defense sector. This platform allows exhibitors to showcase their products and services, engage with potential clients, and strengthen their market presence in the Middle East. Meet qualified buyers and partners including Manufacturers of defense equipment, Providers of security solutions, Technology firms specializing in defense. Position your offer across defense.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Military officials and decision-makers
Defense contractors and suppliers
Security professionals and consultants
Government representatives
Industry analysts and researchers
Media representatives covering defense and security
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Manufacturers of defense equipment
Providers of security solutions
Technology firms specializing in defense
Consultants in military strategy
Logistics and supply chain companies
Training and simulation service providers
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Defense technology and equipment
Security systems and solutions
Military vehicles and aircraft
Surveillance and reconnaissance tools
Cybersecurity solutions
Logistics and support services
Location & Facilities
Venue
Aqaba International Exhibition & Convention Centre (AIECC)
Aqaba, Jordan
Facilities
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: Aqaba International Exhibition & Convention Centre (AIECC) in Aqaba typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at Aqaba International Exhibition & Convention Centre (AIECC) for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Aqaba, Jordan
Why it matters
For security integrators, consultants, and end-users, SOFEX JORDAN 2026 on 2026-10-27 to 2026-10-29 at Aqaba International Exhibition & Convention Centre (AIECC) is the key Italian window to compare video, access, intrusion, fire, and cyber-physical platforms before year-end budgets close - co-located buyers use it to shortlist vendors for 2028 rollouts.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Cyber-physical convergence
What cyber-physical convergence means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Cloud-managed access and identity
What cloud-managed access and identity means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regulatory and compliance pressure
What regulatory and compliance pressure means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Critical infrastructure hardening
What critical infrastructure hardening means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · JOD
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
Budget
Aqaba city centre / near AIECCUSD 55–85 / night
Simple 3-star and guesthouse options; limited inventory during SOFEX week - confirm before travel.
Mid-range
Central Aqaba waterfront and cityUSD 110–150 / night
International 4-star properties such as DoubleTree by Hilton Aqaba; rates not captured for this edition - confirm before travel.
Premium
Aqaba waterfront / Ayla marina districtUSD 230–300 / night
Resort properties including Mövenpick, Kempinski and Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla; check drive time to AIECC - confirm before travel.
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
Airport taxi
Estimated cost10-15 JOD
Best forKing Hussein International Airport (AQJ) to AIECC / central Aqaba
Taxis wait at the airport rank; agree the fare or confirm the meter before departure. Confirm before travel.
Ride-hailing
Estimated cost3-8 JOD
Best forPoint-to-point within Aqaba
Careem and Uber operate in Jordan; Aqaba availability can vary, check the app first. Confirm before travel.
Local taxi
Estimated cost2-5 JOD
Best forShort trips within central Aqaba
Metered or negotiated depending on the taxi; agree the price before setting off. Confirm before travel.
Minibus / local bus
Estimated cost0.5-1 JOD cash
Best forAqaba city routes
Routes and signage are mainly in Arabic; not the easiest option for first-time visitors. Confirm before travel.
Walking
Estimated costFree
Best forCentral Aqaba hotel strip and waterfront
Central Aqaba is walkable, but AIECC may require a vehicle depending on hotel location.
Car rental
Estimated cost25-60 JOD per day
Best forCollected at AQJ or in Aqaba city
Useful if staying away from the venue or planning excursions; confirm parking arrangements with the organiser. Confirm before travel.
Weather
Late October in Aqaba is warm and dry, with daytime highs typically around 29-32°C and night lows around 19-22°C. Rainfall is rare in October, so expect clear skies, strong daytime sun and a warm Red Sea breeze. Exhibition halls are typically air-conditioned, so a light layer helps for long sessions. These are climatological estimates - check the forecast close to travel.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
Confirm mobile roaming or local SIM options for business visitors to Jordan.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Dress and etiquette
Aqaba is a relaxed Red Sea resort city, but dress modestly away from hotels and beaches. Business settings favour smart, conservative dress; shorts and beachwear are best kept to resort areas.
Language
Arabic is the official language. English is widely used in hotels, airports, banks and business contexts, and most exhibition and defence staff will work in English.
Weekend and working hours
Jordan's weekend is Friday and Saturday, and many businesses close on Friday. Plan meetings and off-site appointments on weekdays.
Greetings and hospitality
Handshakes are common in business settings. Jordanian hospitality is valued; accept offered tea or coffee where appropriate and let your host lead on local customs.
Food, alcohol and dining
Aqaba offers Levantine and international dining, and alcohol is served in hotels and licensed venues. Alcohol availability is more limited elsewhere in the country than in this resort city.
Tipping
Service charges may already apply in hotels and restaurants. Small tips are appreciated for taxis, hotel staff and porters.
Money and payments
The Jordanian dinar (JOD) is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger venues, while cash is useful for taxis, small shops and tips.
Photography and security
Defence events restrict photography around exhibits, personnel and facilities. Follow organiser and venue signage, and ask exhibitors before taking photographs on stands.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Compare flights to the nearest international gateway serving Aqaba; confirm ground transport on the organiser site.
Transport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Use the nearest international airport serving Aqaba; Metro, train or taxi links are typically available to the venue district.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Aqaba International Exhibition & Convention Centre (AIECC): Aqaba city centre / near AIECC: Aqaba city centre / near AIECC; Central Aqaba waterfront and city: Central Aqaba waterfront and city; Aqaba waterfront / Ayla marina district: Aqaba waterfront / Ayla marina district.
Ride-hail: Ride-hailing apps are commonly used in Aqaba; confirm local availability before travel.
Public transit: Check local bus/metro options for routes to Aqaba International Exhibition & Convention Centre (AIECC).
Parking: On-site parking is available at Aqaba International Exhibition & Convention Centre (AIECC); confirm daily rates and hall access on the organiser or venue site.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: October 2026
Temperature: Approx. 29-32°C daytime highs and 19-22°C night lows (late October, Aqaba, Jordan). Climatological estimate - confirm the forecast close to travel.
Seasonality: October falls in Jordan's autumn shoulder season and is one of the driest months in Aqaba. Rain is rare and days are mostly clear and sunny, with warm Red Sea breezes and strong daytime sun.
Packing: October 2026
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at SOFEX JORDAN 2026 usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
Day 1
Book flights and Aqaba accommodation
Day 2
Check Jordan entry requirements
Day 3
Plan the airport-to-city transfer
Day 4
Review the conference programme
Day 5
Prepare business materials
Day 6
Pack for warm, dry weather; Arrange currency and payments
Day 7
Sort out connectivity
Day 8
Plan evening and off-site time
Day 9
Lock in daily transport to the venue
Day 10
Note photography and security rules
Day 11
Confirm registration and accreditation
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at Aqaba International Exhibition & Convention Centre (AIECC)
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2SOFEX JORDAN 2026 registration concourse
Aqaba International Exhibition & Convention Centre (AIECC)
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
Aqaba International Exhibition & Convention Centre (AIECC)
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nightsJOD 110.000
- Per diem × 2JOD 150.000
Estimated totalJOD 260.000
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether SOFEX JORDAN 2026 fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
What is your primary role?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus and target suppliers align with the official exhibitor profile.
Best for
Buyers, engineers, and delegates sourcing Defense technology and equipment solutions and benchmarking suppliers at SOFEX JORDAN 2026 in Aqaba.
Min. budget
$370.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration, hotels, and travel.
Risks
Session times and ticket tiers may change - confirm the official agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a defined lead-generation or distributor recruitment goal for this market.
Best for
Brands and manufacturers launching Defense technology and equipment products who need qualified meetings with the event's trade audience.
Min. budget
$2,200.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, staffing, and pre-show marketing.
Risks
Booth pricing and corner premiums vary by hall - confirm with the organiser sales team.
skip
Audience, geography, or commercial goals do not justify travel and stand costs this cycle.
Best for
Teams with weak category fit, budget constraints, or overlapping commitments during the Aqaba show week.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
Skipping may mean missing buyer meetings if competitors exhibit or attend the same week.
Gallery
Photos
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
What is SOFEX Jordan?
SOFEX Jordan is the Special Operations Forces Exhibition and Conference, a defence and security trade event focused on special operations, counter-terrorism and homeland security equipment, systems and services. The 2026 edition is scheduled for 27-29 October 2026 in Aqaba, Jordan.
When and where is SOFEX Jordan 2026?
It is scheduled for 27-29 October 2026 in Aqaba, Jordan, at the Aqaba International Exhibition & Convention Centre (AIECC). Confirm final venue halls, gate opening hours and daily timings with the organiser at sofexjordan.com before travelling.
Who can attend SOFEX Jordan?
As a defence and security exhibition, access is generally restricted to government, military, security and accredited industry professionals, with vetted registration. Check current eligibility and accreditation requirements with the organiser before booking travel.
How do I register or get accredited for SOFEX Jordan 2026?
Registration and accreditation are handled through the organiser's official site, sofexjordan.com. Because access is vetted, apply early and allow time for credential checks and any invitation or clearance the organiser requires.
Is SOFEX open to the general public?
Defence and security trade events of this type are generally not open to the general public; access is limited to credentialed professionals. Confirm the current visitor policy with the organiser.
What is exhibited at SOFEX?
Exhibit categories typically span special operations equipment, C4ISR and ISR systems, UAVs, counter-IED and EOD tools, personal and ballistic protection, soldier modernisation, border security, rotary-wing and airborne platforms, and related training and services. Check the organiser's exhibitor sector list for the confirmed scope.
How do I travel to Aqaba for SOFEX?
Aqaba is served by King Hussein International Airport (AQJ), a short drive from the city and venue area. Amman's Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) is an alternative international gateway with an onward road transfer of roughly 3.5-4 hours. Confirm schedules and transfers before booking.
What is the weather like in Aqaba in late October?
Late October in Aqaba is warm and dry, with daytime highs around 29-32°C and night lows around 19-22°C, and rainfall is rare. Bring light, breathable clothing and sun protection; indoor exhibition halls are typically air-conditioned.
What currency is used in Aqaba and Jordan?
The Jordanian dinar (JOD) is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger venues, while cash is useful for taxis, small shops and tips.
Can I photograph exhibits at SOFEX?
Defence events usually restrict photography around exhibits, personnel and facilities. Follow organiser and venue signage, and ask exhibitors before photographing any stand.
Glossary
- SOF (Special Operations Forces)
- Military and security units trained for specialised, high-risk missions such as counter-terrorism, direct action, reconnaissance and hostage rescue. SOFEX Jordan is structured around the equipment, training and procurement needs of these units.
- C4ISR
- Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance. The networked systems that link sensors, decision-makers and operators, a core exhibit category at special operations exhibitions.
- ISR
- Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance. The collection, processing and analysis of information using platforms such as UAVs, aircraft, radars and ground sensors to support operational decisions.
- UAS / UAV
- Unmanned Aircraft System / Unmanned Aerial Vehicle. Remotely piloted or autonomous aircraft used for surveillance, targeting, communications relay and, increasingly, logistics resupply in special operations roles.
- Counter-IED (C-IED)
- Equipment, tactics and training used to detect, neutralise and defeat improvised explosive devices, including route-clearance tools, jammers and protective systems.
- Ballistic protection
- Personal protective equipment such as hard armour plates, helmets and soft armour rated to stop small-arms projectiles and fragmentation, typically certified to recognised protection standards shown by exhibitors.
- Night vision / thermal imaging
- Electro-optical and infrared sights and goggles that let operators see and target in low light, smoke or total darkness; a standard category at special operations and security shows.
- Soldier modernisation
- Integrated programmes to improve the mobility, lethality, protection and digital connectivity of the individual dismounted soldier, often called dismounted soldier systems.
- Border security
- Surveillance, sensor, patrol and interdiction technologies and services used to monitor and protect land and maritime frontiers.
- Counter-terrorism (CT)
- Military, police and intelligence measures used to prevent, deter and respond to terrorist threats, including tactical units, EOD and specialist equipment.
- Static display / live demonstration
- Exhibition formats where equipment is shown stationary or operated live to demonstrate capability; both are common at defence events and may require separate organiser approval.
- Defence offset and industrial cooperation
- Contractual arrangements under which a foreign supplier invests in, or transfers work to, the buyer country's local defence industry as a condition of a major procurement.
- Export control and end-use
- National and international rules (for example ITAR or EAR for US-origin items) that govern the export, re-export and end-use of defence and dual-use goods, relevant to exhibitors shipping equipment to Jordan.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- SOFEX JORDAN 2026
- SOFEX 2026 Aqaba
- SOFEX Jordan Aqaba
- SOFEX Aqaba October 2026
- Aqaba defense security expo
- Middle East defense expo 2026
- military vehicles aircraft expo Aqaba
- surveillance reconnaissance equipment show
- cybersecurity solutions expo Jordan
- SOFEX exhibitor list 2026
5 more alternate names hidden
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SOFEX JORDAN
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