Souk Madinat Jumeirah, an authentic Arabian bazaar which recreates the traditional Middle Eastern marketplace, is inviting budding photographers to capture the ‘Spirit of the Souk’ through their own eyes during its inaugural photography competition.
Open to all UAE residents, the competition runs between 12 August and 9 September with the aim to inspire creativity in the capturing of the Souk’s culture, life, and extraordinary moments, for a chance to win grand prizes that include exhibition space at Souk Madinat Jumeirah and camera equipment. Whether taken with a phone or professional camera, entrants are encouraged to use their creative eye to narrate visual stories that best define the Souk.
Entries must be posted on Instagram before 9 September, tagging @SoukMadinatJumeirah while using hashtags #SpiritoftheSouk and #SoukMadinatJumeirah. All submissions will be judged by Khalil Abdulwahid, Director of Fine Arts at Dubai Culture & Arts Authority; Emirati conceptual artist and photographer, Faisal Al Rais; and Jassim Al Awadhi, Chairman for the Emirates Photography Association and Founder of the UAE Photography Club. Shortlisted entries will be uploaded to a Facebook event page.
One lucky photographer selected for their unique and memorable photography will have the opportunity to exhibit their work in the Central Courtyard at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, increasing visibility among thousands of visitors inclusive of residents and tourists. Additional mega prizes include a Canon EOS R5 Mirrorless Digital Camera and DJI Mavic Air 2 Drone and tickets to the Theatre of Digital Art. The winner will be announced on 16 September via Souk Madinat Jumeirah’s social media channels.
Over the years, Souk Madinat Jumeirah has established itself as one of Dubai’s most iconic leisure and entertainment-led destinations, providing local and international visitors with an authentic experience through a series of unique and distinctive pieces of artworks and installations that transform the Souk into a living canvas.
Its weaving corridors and waterways provide the ideal destination to explore, delivering a modern glimpse into Dubai’s past, with numerous stories and experiences along the journey. Through the liveliness of the art and storytelling with QR codes, the Souk connects visitors who share the desire to discover what tales lay within, a photographer’s dream.
With more than 25 restaurants and cafes in a sophisticated range of F&B choices, Souk features various entertainment activities and nightlife options, and a selection of boutiques and shopping experiences. The Souk’s holistic retail and experience portfolio offers visitors a modern take on the past by pairing Arabic culture with modern convenience.