Sultan Al Haddad wins Prime Minister’s Journalism Award for Best Photography

Manama, June 1 (BNA): Sultan Jassim Al Haddad, a photographer from Bahrain News Agency (BNA), has won the Prime Minister’s Journalism Award for Best Photography in its ninth edition. His winning photograph of a pilgrim’s hands at Arafat was commended for its artistic creativity and deep meaning.

Al Haddad highlighted the strong support for national media under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. He said this support has fostered creativity, excellence, and professionalism in the media sector.

He expressed his pride in receiving this award from HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, describing it as a great national honour and motivation for further excellence in photojournalism. He also noted the significance of winning during the 25th anniversary celebrations of the Bahrain Journalists Association, reflecting ongoing appreciation for national journalism and its professionals.

Al Haddad thanked Dr. Ramzan bin Abdulla Al Noaimi, Minister of Information, for his continuous support of photographers and media professionals, and Abdullah Khalil Buhejji, Director General of BNA, for fostering a supportive and motivating work environment.

Describing the winning photo, Al Haddad said it captures a spiritual moment of a pilgrim raising his hands in prayer on the day of Arafat, with sunlight streaming between his palms. He explained that the image symbolises humility before God, focusing on the essence rather than the features. He believes that a successful photo tells a story without words, capturing the emotion and truth of the moment. Through this shot, he aimed to convey the spiritual side of Hajj with a simple yet powerful visual.

He said this achievement marks a new beginning for further development and innovation in photojournalism, and brings greater responsibility to produce professional content that meets the community’s expectations and reflects Bahrain’s standing in the media.

Al Haddad dedicated the award to his colleagues at BNA and to everyone who works behind the camera with passion, carrying a national message and believing in the power of photography to raise awareness and promote national values.