Dubai: The Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Award (HIPA) is inviting photographers from around the world to submit their best work to the 14th season of its prestigious annual competition, themed 'Power'. With a total prize pool of US$1 million, the competition offers both emerging and established talent the opportunity to showcase compelling visual narratives, push creative boundaries, receive financial support, and gain international recognition.
According to Emirates News Agency, this year's competition features five categories: Power (Main Theme), Sports Photography, Drone (Video), Portfolio (Story-Telling), and General (Colour and Black and White). Highlights of the 2025 edition include a US$200,000 Grand Prize, and a dedicated US$80,000 award for 'HIPA Photographer of the Year', designed to honour an exceptional visual storyteller whose work over 12 months captures both artistic excellence and social relevance.
Participation is free and open to all photographers aged 18 and over, with submissions accepted until 31st May 2025, at www.hipa.ae. Ali Khalifa Bin Thalith, HIPA Secretary-General, explained that HIPA is about more than individual images - it's about empowering photographers to tell stories that resonate across borders and cultures. The 'HIPA Photographer of the Year' category, now in its second year, has drawn praise from across the global photography community for honouring sustained creative impact over time.
Tom Ang, renowned Australian photographer and author, remarked that the award elevates the standing of HIPA internationally, reinforcing photography as a tool for global understanding and historical memory. Ken Geiger, American Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist, added that the category shifts the focus from fleeting impact to sustained visual excellence and lasting contribution. Maggie Steber, acclaimed American documentary photographer, noted the award honours the artistic force behind a year-long vision.
Tareq Abdulrahman, Nikon Middle East General Manager - Customer Satisfaction, called the category a powerful addition that expands HIPA's global influence and celebrates creative achievements from all corners of the world. Emirati photographer Jassim Al-Awadhi highlighted that the award considers both the social and human impact of the photographer's work, as well as the quality of the images, ensuring the winner reflects a complete and mature artistic vision.
Samy Olabi, last year's winner and a leading astrophotographer, described his win as a dream come true and recognition of years spent capturing the awe-inspiring beauty of our skies. His win highlighted the dedication behind his work, involving long nights, remote locations, and a relentless pursuit of images that reveal the cosmos with both technical mastery and artistic vision.