His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Media Council, attended the closing ceremony of the 9th edition of the Xposure International Photography Festival (Xposure 2025) on Wednesday. The weeklong festival, which welcomed more than 30,000 attendees, brought together photographers, filmmakers, and visual artists from around the world, further cementing its position as a global platform for storytelling through imagery.

Organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB), Xposure 2025 took place from February 20 to 26 at Aljada, Sharjah, offering an immersive space where photography, film, and visual arts converged to push creative boundaries and redefine the role of visual storytelling in today’s world.

In his closing remarks, His Excellency Tariq Saeed Allay, Director General of SGMB, reflected on the festival’s evolution, noting: “Xposure is no longer just about photography. Today, cinema and documentary filmmaking are integral to its fabric, standing alongside exhibitions by some of the world’s most renowned photographers and visual artists. This festival has grown into a crucible of thought and creativity—an event that reimagines the role of the lens in documenting life and shaping the future.”

He also paid tribute to the vision of HH Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, highlighting his role in elevating Xposure’s global stature: “For nine years, Your Highness, you have been the driving force behind this journey—guiding its direction, inspiring the team, and ensuring that Xposure remains a global benchmark for excellence in photography and visual storytelling. Under your leadership, the festival has evolved into a strategic initiative that challenges photographers to push creative boundaries, use imagery as a tool for impact, and reshape perspectives on the world around us.”

Following the speeches, attendees viewed an exclusive behind-the-scenes film showcasing the meticulous preparations for Xposure 2025, highlighting the extensive efforts behind the festival’s success, key moments from the weeklong program, and the work of participating photographers from across the globe.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi honoured distinguished photographers, filmmakers, and guest experts, as well as participating Arab and international photography associations and federations. He also recognised the festival’s partners and sponsors, joining them for a commemorative photo session.

Expanding the horizons of photography

Xposure 2025 went beyond conventional photography, embracing contemporary trends and emerging technologies. For the first time, the festival introduced a new category within the International Photography Awards, dedicated to AI-generated photography—marking a pivotal moment in the conversation around digital imagery and the intersection of human creativity and artificial intelligence.

Additionally, the festival hosted the 4th Environmental Summit, welcoming an esteemed lineup of photographers and journalists who have dedicated their careers to documenting environmental conservation and biodiversity.

A celebration of visual storytelling

Over seven days, Xposure 2025 transformed into a dynamic space for engaging discussions, masterclasses, and immersive experiences. Curated exhibitions featured over 2,500 powerful images from more than 300 internationally acclaimed photographers, showcasing compelling visual narratives from around the world. The festival also hosted Xposure Talks, where industry leaders and visionaries shared insights and perspectives on the evolving role of photography and visual arts.

Education played a central role in this edition, with skill-building workshops, portfolio reviews, and mentorship opportunities providing invaluable learning experiences for both emerging and professional photographers. Documentary film screenings brought powerful global narratives to life, while the photography equipment showcase introduced audiences to the latest innovations from leading imaging brands, offering a glimpse into the future of the industry.

The festival’s relocation to Aljada also introduced an open-air exhibition format, enhancing audience engagement and creating new interactive experiences for visitors.

The closing ceremony was attended by top officials, including Sheikh Saud bin Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Director General of the Sharjah Digital Authority; HE Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority; HE Mohammed Hassan Khalaf, Director General of Sharjah Broadcasting Authority; HE Tariq Saeed Allay, Director General of SGMB; HE Hassan Yaqoub Al Mansouri, Secretary General of the Sharjah Media Council; HE Mohammed Ahmed Amin, Director General of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry; HE Abdullah Abdulrahman Al Shamsi, Director General of the Sharjah Electricity, Water, and Gas Authority, along with a distinguished gathering of photographers, artists, and industry professionals.

As the curtains fall on this year’s edition, Xposure 2025 leaves behind a legacy of inspiration, innovation, and impact, having sparked meaningful conversations on the evolving landscape of visual storytelling. The festival continues to redefine the role of imagery in shaping global narratives, reaffirming its commitment to the power of photography as a force for change.