Abu dhabi: The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre has initiated the third edition of its 'Dhay Photography Competition' under the theme 'Family at the Mosque', as part of its initiatives marking the 'Year of the Family 2026'. This competition encourages photographers worldwide, both professionals and amateurs, to capture the essence of family gatherings within the mosques managed by the Centre.
According to Emirates News Agency, this edition of the competition aims to capture authentic human expressions and scenes that embody family bonds across various cultures. It serves as a creative platform for documenting meaningful family moments, reflecting the Centre's commitment to supporting the arts as a universal language and fostering sustainable engagement with photographers globally.
Photographers are invited to submit their entries, which can be captured using cameras or mobile phones, showcasing family presence at significant locations including Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, as well as Sheikh Khalifa Grand Mosque in Al Ain and Ras Al Khaimah. This offers participants an opportunity to present their unique artistic perspectives.
The competition promises cash prizes for the top entries, with the first-place winner receiving AED5,000, the second-place winner AED3,000, and the third-place winner AED1,000. Submissions are open until 12th June 2026, and the winners will be announced on 10th August 2026.
In addition, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre has announced the winners of the previous 'Dhay Photography Competition', which was themed 'Ramadan at the Mosque'. The competition showcased impressive visual perspectives and diverse angles. Yousif Musa Mohamed from Sudan secured first place, followed by Hazim Mohammed Eldaw, also from Sudan, in second place, and Jamalu Koottumadathil Hamza from India in third place.
The 'Dhay Photography Competition' continues the tradition of the 'Spaces of Light Photography Award', which since its inception in 2010, has drawn over 12,300 photographers from more than 70 countries, leading to nearly 30,000 entries across its eight editions.