Photographers from around the world have until May 31st to submit their entries for the 14th edition of the Hamdan International Photography Award (HIPA). This year’s main theme is ‘Power,’ which is explored specifically in one of the competition’s five categories. The remaining categories include general photography, sports, drone (video), and visual storytelling.
The HIPA Award returns for its fourteenth edition, with the theme of ‘Power’ at the heart of its global celebration of photography. Participants are invited to interpret the theme in its many dimensions. “Power is both a catalyst for change and transformation, a source of inspiration and fear,” explains Ali Bin Thalith, Secretary General of the award. “Photographers are encouraged to explore this theme through artistic, technical, and human angles shedding light on its philosophical and aesthetic aspects. While one category will focus directly on the theme of Power, the others allow for a broader range of creative expression. The goal is also to highlight the importance of using power constructively, to help shape a better future.”
This year’s competition also features four additional categories. ‘Sports Photography’, a key pillar of the award’s reputation, returns alongside the ‘General’ category — divided into color and black & white subcategories — which consistently draws a third of all entries and offers photographers a platform to showcase their work with complete creative freedom. The ‘Portfolio’ category invites entrants to demonstrate visual storytelling through a series of related images. For the first time, a ‘Drone’ videography category has also been introduced.
“HIPA has entered a new phase of global influence in the photography world, supporting visual talent and promoting the cultural significance of photography as a tool for communication and understanding among people,” says Ali Bin Thalith. This evolution is reflected in the prize fund, which has doubled from US$450,000 to US$1 million, and the introduction of the HIPA Photographer of the Year award in 2024, which remains a key feature in 2025.
This category recognizes a photographer whose creative output over the past 12 months has resulted in a compelling body of work. Entrants must submit a portfolio that reflects recent accomplishments, ongoing projects, and future creative visions. “It’s aimed at photographers who are deeply committed to meaningful, long-term work — those whose lens captures not only beauty but also purpose,” says Bin Thalith. “We believe this platform can make photography a powerful force for dialogue, understanding, and change.”
More information
