Abu dhabi: Entries from 24 nationalities have been submitted to the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre for the inaugural ‘The Image Witness’ competition, featuring 57 photographers focusing on Qasr Al Hosn. Winners will be announced at the 35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair from September 13 to 18, 2026.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Centre initiated the competition to integrate photography into its cultural initiatives, support the publishing industry through visual media, and enhance modern Arabic content. ‘The Image Witness’ aims to use photography for documentation and expression, enriching the Emirati cultural narrative.

Saeed Hamdan Al Tunaiji, Executive Director of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, stated that the competition aligns with the Centre’s strategic efforts to revitalize the publishing industry by expanding the concept of text to include visual storytelling. The initiative emphasizes the cultural and historical significance of Qasr Al Hosn, a symbol of heritage and national identity.

The competition features four categories: Qasr Al Hosn as a building, black and white photography, light and shadow, and digital editing.