The Hamdan International Photography Award (HIPA) 2025, established under the patronage of Dubai’s Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid bin Mohammed al Maktoum, represents one of the world’s most prestigious and anticipated photography competitions. Now in its fourteenth edition, HIPA continues to attract photographers globally, offering an unparalleled platform to showcase creativity, technical skill, and artistic vision. For 2025, the central theme "POWER" invites photographers to explore the multifaceted concept of power through compelling visual storytelling across diverse photographic styles and techniques.
This international photography contest features multiple competition categories tailored to embrace a broad spectrum of photographic disciplines and interests. The categories include General (Colour and Black & White), which welcomes creative expressions across all genres; Portfolio, dedicated to narrative-driven photographic storytelling; Sports Photography, focusing on dynamic action and decisive moments; and Drone (Video), celebrating innovative aerial cinematography. These diverse categories encourage photographers, from enthusiastic amateurs to seasoned professionals, to submit their best work, highlighting excellence in composition, originality, and emotional impact.
HIPA 2025 aims to foster global photographic talent by offering significant financial awards, international recognition, and exposure through global media coverage, exhibitions, and prestigious award ceremonies. By providing a rich incentive structure and unparalleled visibility, HIPA serves as a catalyst for artistic innovation and cultural dialogue, connecting photography enthusiasts worldwide. Photographers participating in HIPA gain access to valuable opportunities to elevate their careers, network with industry leaders, and join an esteemed international community dedicated to celebrating and advancing the art of photography.
There is no entry fee.
Eligibility
Open to anyone aged 18 or over.
Prize
The HIPA 2025 awards boast a total prize pool of $1,000,000, making it one of the richest photography contests globally. The Grand Prize winner will receive $200,000. Category prizes include: Portfolio – 1st: $50,000, 2nd: $40,000, 3rd: $30,000; General (Colour and Black & White), Sports Photography, and Drone (Video) – 1st: $40,000, 2nd: $30,000, 3rd: $20,000. Special awards comprise the HIPA Photographer of the Year ($80,000), Photography Content Creator Award ($50,000), and Photography Appreciation Award ($100,000).
