Post by : Badri Ariffin

In a noteworthy announcement, the Majalis Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with the Creative Lab under the Creative Media Authority of Abu Dhabi (CMA), has unveiled the recipients of the Family in Frame Award. This initiative, designed to honor familial bonds through photography, emerged as part of the UAE’s Year of Family and the broader Family in Frame project.

With nearly 1,300 entries submitted, the competition focused on the art of photography as a compelling medium for storytelling, celebrating cultural traditions and underscoring the familial values that connect people across generations within the UAE.

Out of all submissions, 45 photographs were shortlisted during an extensive evaluation phase before the final winners were chosen by a dedicated panel of photography and media experts.

Photography Capturing Family Connections and Heritage

The selected photographs encapsulated authentic family interactions that conveyed themes of love, connection, and unity. The entries showcased the significance of shared experiences, strong family ties, and the crucial role of families in preserving cultural identity and fostering community spirit.

The winners received their awards at a ceremony held at Al Shamkha Majlis in Abu Dhabi.

Three Top Photographs Acknowledged

Dheyab Al Nuaimi secured first place for his photograph illustrating a multi-generational gathering of an Emirati family. This image poignantly captured a simple moment, reflecting the continuity of family traditions and intergenerational unity.

The second place was awarded to Hamada Abdullah for a striking black-and-white image depicting the traditional Arabic nose greeting exchanged between an elderly man and a young boy, symbolizing warmth and respect across generations.

Ana Backhaus earned third place for her photograph showcasing elder hands teaching a child to prepare dough, symbolizing the transmission of knowledge and care within family life.

CMA Emphasizes Value of Creative Storytelling

Salwa Al Hadhrami, Head of Creative Content and Community Projects at CMA, commented:

"The remarkable participation in the Family in Frame Award highlights the profound connection that individuals have to the concepts of family, belonging, and shared experiences. Our partnership with Majalis Abu Dhabi allows us to provide a platform for photographers and creatives from all walks of life to tell their stories through visuals. The winning works wonderfully encapsulate the warmth and bonds that define family life, showcasing the power of creative expression in fostering a resilient society."

Distinguished Jury Selected Winning Entries

The winners were chosen by an esteemed jury comprising experts in photography and visual storytelling both regionally and internationally.

The panel featured notable British photographer Ranald Mackechnie as the lead judge, with contributions from Emirati photographer Khalid Alhashimi, sports photographer Hind Al Raeesi, portrait photographer Abdullah Al Braiki, and Mohamed Somji, focusing on creativity, quality, and relevance to the familial themes of the competition.

Family in Frame Initiative Inspiring Creativity

Launched in March 2026, the Family in Frame Award is integral to the overall Family in Frame initiative spearheaded by the Creative Lab and CMA, which spotlights families in cultivating confidence, creativity, and aspirations.

Participants from across the UAE, regardless of age, were invited to submit a singular photograph that encapsulated the competition’s theme through vivid storytelling.

This initiative further supports the ongoing efforts of Creative Lab and CMA to empower content creators, offering accessible avenues for creative expression. Participants and families are encouraged to share narratives that celebrate community, unity, and everyday moments.

Exhibition of Winning Works During Eid Al Etihad 2026

The selected winning works will be displayed during the upcoming Eid Al Etihad 2026 festival as part of a special exhibition promoting creativity and community involvement. Additionally, a video showcasing the award ceremony and the winners will be shared through CMA and Majalis Abu Dhabi's official platforms.

#UAE News #Abu Dhabi News #Abu Dhabi #Global Updates