The Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Award has announced “Family” as the central theme for its 15th Season Competition, reinforcing photography’s role in reflecting social values while introducing new creative dimensions to the global contest.
This season will feature five main categories, including the established Sports Photography, General Photography in black and white and colour, and Portfolio Storytelling. A new category, Dreams Through AI, has been introduced alongside the main theme, expanding the competition’s creative scope.
Ali Bin Thalith, Secretary-General of HIPA, said the chosen theme aligns with the UAE’s Year of the Family initiative. He noted that it supports the National Agenda’s focus on strengthening the Emirati family while encouraging citizens and residents to value family cohesion and meaningful relationships. According to Bin Thalith, the family remains a core pillar of social stability, prosperity, and quality of life.
He explained that the Dreams Through AI category reflects the growing intersection between technology and visual arts. Participants are required to submit an original photograph that meets specific criteria, followed by an AI-generated interpretation that represents an imagined dream inspired by the image. The category aims to preserve the principle of image-first photography while offering space for creative experimentation.
Bin Thalith added that HIPA continues to strengthen its position as a globally influential photography platform rooted in Emirati identity, highlighting photography’s ability to draw attention to important issues worldwide.
Submissions are open from 10 January until 31 May 2026 at 23:59 UAE Standard Time. Entries must be submitted through the official HIPA website.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
