Sharjah – The ninth edition of the Xposure International Photography Festival has officially opened in Sharjah, bringing together 420 photographers and 3,100 breathtaking images that capture moments of war, hope, resilience, and cultural heritage. Under the patronage of Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the prestigious festival will run until February 26 at its brand-new venue in Aljada.
This year’s exhibition is more than a showcase of artistic brilliance—it is a powerful storytelling platform, featuring works that transcend borders and cultures, leaving visitors deeply moved at every turn.
Photography That Tells a Story
Internationally acclaimed photographers and local talents have come together to curate an immersive experience for visitors. Among the standout exhibits is Mario Cruz’s “Talibe: Modern Day Slaves,” a haunting collection shedding light on the plight of children trapped in forced labor under the guise of education. The powerful images serve as a stark reminder of human rights violations affecting vulnerable populations worldwide.
Another compelling collection, “The Long Shadow of Chernobyl” by American photographer Greg Ludwig, presents a chilling visual narrative of one of history’s worst nuclear disasters. His photographs depict the environmental and human consequences of the tragedy, serving as a stark reminder of its lasting impact.
Adding a spiritual dimension to the festival, Saudi Arabian photographer Abdulrahman Al Sahli captures the essence of the pilgrimage to Makkah. His images convey deep devotion, humility, and faith, portraying pilgrims in moments of sincere worship.
“No matter how big or small you are in life, how rich or poor, this is the place that brings everyone to their knees,” Al Sahli shared, emphasizing the unifying power of faith.
A Celebration of Architectural Brilliance
Photographer Emadeddin Alaeddin mesmerizes audiences with his intricate images of UAE mosque interiors. At first glance, his photographs appear as abstract geometric designs, but a closer look reveals the symmetrical beauty of domes and arches.
“Many non-Muslims have no idea what mosques look like from the inside, so I decided to showcase their architectural grandeur,” he said.
His square-format images highlight the symmetry and elegance of Islamic architectural design, celebrating mosques as symbols of tolerance and unity.
Beyond Photography: A Hub for Creativity
Xposure 2025 offers more than just photography exhibitions. The festival features interactive workshops, inspiring talks by world-renowned photographers, film screenings, guided tours, and book signings. Additionally, a trade exhibition featuring leading international brands provides a unique platform for creative dialogue and artistic innovation.
Visitors to Xposure 2025 can expect an unforgettable journey through visuals that evoke emotion, inspire action, and document the raw realities of the world we live in. With an extraordinary range of themes—from war and humanitarian crises to faith and architectural marvels—the festival continues to solidify its status as a global hub for visual storytelling and creative excellence.
