Celebrating 10 Years of Visual Storytelling at Xposure Festival in Sharjah

Xposure International Photography and Film Festival: A Decade of Visual Narratives

The Xposure International Photography and Film Festival is set to celebrate its tenth anniversary in extraordinary fashion, with its largest gathering of visual artists yet. Scheduled to unfold from January 29 to February 4, 2026, this highly anticipated event will take place at the expansive Aljada site in Sharjah, UAE. This year, the festival is framed around the inspiring theme, "A Decade of Visual Storytelling," bringing together an impressive roster of 420 artists from various corners of the globe.

A Hub for Creativity and Connection

Over the years, Xposure has cemented its reputation as a pivotal platform for visual storytellers, elevating Sharjah's status as a leading destination for photography and film. Under the auspices of the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB), the upcoming festival is anticipated to feature a staggering 570 events, which will include 95 exhibitions showcasing over 3,200 visual works. Tariq Saeed Allay, Director-General of the SGMB, remarked on the festival's profound impact on fostering human connections through photography. He expressed, "Xposure has evolved into a vital global space for connection, shaped by the compelling stories photographers convey through their lenses."

The Awards and Notable Participants

The festival will also spotlight the Xposure Photography and Film Awards 2026, which have received an overwhelming response with over 29,000 entries, including 634 films from more than 60 countries. This impressive turnout illustrates the festival’s growing global reach and significance in the visual arts community. The expansive event will feature influential artists and photographers, allowing them to share their unique perspectives with aspiring creators and art enthusiasts alike.

Highlighting the importance of environmental themes in photography, renowned photographer Sebastian Copeland emphasized the role of visual art in raising awareness about pressing issues. He stated, "When nature speaks and we do not listen, photography can make us hear with our eyes." This sentiment reflects the festival’s commitment to encouraging artistic exploration and conversation around crucial global issues.

Additionally, American photographer George Steinmetz will contribute a thought-provoking project entitled "Feeding the Planet," which examines global food systems and their environmental consequences. Such works ensure that attendees will leave the festival with not only inspiring visuals but also a deeper understanding of the themes conveyed.

Guest of Honour: Athens

For the first time, the Xposure Festival is delighted to feature Athens as its Guest of Honour, with a specially curated programme that will illuminate the city's rich heritage and its contemporary creative landscape. Mayor Haris Doukas expressed the pride of Athens being selected, stating that this recognition is about honoring a legacy that continues to thrive, shaping the present and future. This vibrant cultural exchange will enrich the festival and highlight the collaborative spirit that fosters artistic dialogue across cultures.

An Invitation to Explore

As the festival unfolds, attendees can look forward to an array of 126 engaging talks, 72 interactive workshops, and portfolio reviews aimed at emerging artists. This rich offering presents a unique opportunity for participants to deepen their engagement with visual storytelling and master various techniques in photography and filmmaking.

In essence, the Xposure International Photography and Film Festival is more than just an event; it is a celebration of creativity, culture, and connection. It invites art lovers and professionals alike to immerse themselves in the powerful narratives that photography brings to life. Don't miss out on this significant milestone in visual arts!