Dive Industry News and Matters

The 2026 NOGI Awards have been announced, recognising five individuals whose careers have shaped modern diving, underwater exploration and ocean stewardship. Presented annually by the Academy of Underwater Arts & Sciences, the NOGI Awards are among the most respected honours in the global diving community, celebrating lifetime achievement across distinct fields.

It was relatively easy to take a weekend trip there – at least for me, who can get to my local airport, Copenhagen, in half an hour. From there, it's just over an hour's flight to Brussels, where our equipment editor Lelle Malmström joined me from Stockholm. We then took a train directly from the terminal to Antwerp – tickets can be purchased from a vending kiosk in the airport – and soon arrived at the hotel, which was located directly opposite the exhibition halls. The entire trip was hassle-free and took only a few hours.

Returning for its 2026 edition from 5-7 June at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur, MIDE aims to deliver its most ambitious and dynamic showcase yet—bringing together dive professionals, ocean advocates, newcomers and world-leading brands in a single, vibrant venue.

After taking part in all five editions, since the inaugural event in 2021 at the resort Troia, about an hour south of Lisbon, I have had a front-row view of the journey and evolution the conference has undergone. The core principles and format remain the same, emphasising talks and meaningful socialising with both presenters and fellow attendees during the conference days. The pleasant pace and atmosphere, as well as the top-notch catering, remain the same.

I have attended more than 30 DEMA shows and have generally approached each with positive expectations—except, perhaps, for the virtual edition in 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic halted gatherings and most travel. That was an odd one. This time, however, I harboured some doubt and even apprehension, given the international tensions and the regrettable, toxic rhetoric that has led to a steep decline in inbound tourism to the United States.