MUSCAT : His powerful imagery, rich in emotion and identity, bridges the gap between ancient traditions and modern narratives while uplifting the photography community across the Gulf.

The announcement was made by the General Secretariat of the Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Award (HIPA) during the reveal of the winners of the 14th edition of the award, themed “Power.”

This year’s special categories included the Content Creator Award, the HIPA Photographer of the Year Award, and the Appreciation Award, each honoring remarkable contributions to the global photography scene.

Alongside Al Hajri, the Appreciation Award went to renowned American photographer Rick Smolan, whose influential career as an author and speaker has spotlighted global humanitarian issues. The Content Creator Award was presented to Mark Smith, an American photographer and director celebrated as one of the world’s leading bird photographers, with over two billion views on his conservation-focused work.

Al Hajri’s recognition reflects his ongoing commitment to portraying the depth of Omani and Arab identity through his lens. His works, known for their vibrancy and emotional resonance, have gained acclaim both regionally and internationally. Among his many accolades is the gold medal in the black and white category at the FIAP International Photography Competition, where he represented Oman.

Founded under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the HIPA Award seeks to elevate global standards in photography and nurture creativity.

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