Reflecting Dubai’s commitment to art, culture and innovation, the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Award (HIPA) reaches out to talented photographers across the world.

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The 2014 stage programme was injected with a series of custom live performances from world renowned Cirque Du Soleil, directed and choreographed to creatively introduce each of the category themes and reflect the stunning photographic backdrops.

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In 2013, under the theme of ‘Beauty of Light’ HQWS produced the second edition of this prestigious event in front of the iconic DIFC Gate. Pre-function spaces were designed around stylish installations of live jazz musicians and vocalists performing in silhouette within projected cubes. On screen, breathtaking still photography was brought to life through animated effects and an epic soundtrack, enhanced with lighting and live audio layers.

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The 2012 inaugural awards ceremony, held on Burj Island, was attended by 1,000 VIP and invited guests. The beautiful outdoor ceremony creatively showcased the award winners and their awe-inspiring entries across a 55m wide projected set, and included a custom performance by the world renowned ‘Pilobolus’ Dance Theatre Company. Before and after the event guests relaxed in contemporary lounge spaces, immersed in projected imagery and global cultural performances.