National Geographic Abu Dhabi presents photomentaries photography competition, in partnership with Almarai Company

This year, National Geographic's award-winning photographer, Joe McNally, will join the Photomentaries judging panel to give one budding Middle East artist the chance of a lifetime - their photograph, featured in National Geographic Al Arabiya Magazine, as well as an all-expenses paid National Geographic Photography Expedition to the Galapagos Islands.

The theme for the latest Photomentaries competition is 'Celebrating Arab Culture'. Photographers from across the Arab World are encouraged to capture images that are quintessentially Arabic and rooted in the region, featuring subjects such as symbols, structures, customers, food, sights, fashion and more.

"The life of a National Geographic photographer is one that many envy - but it's no easy task. We're proud to showcase our finest artistic talents, and the trials they go through while on assignment, in this month dedicated to their achievements. National Geographic is defined by its world-class photography, and we look forward to this riveting contest capturing the interest of our viewers across the region for the third year in a row," said Rohit D'Silva, Senior Vice President and General Manager (Middle East & North Africa), National Geographic Abu Dhabi.

Mohamed Al Hammadi, Editor-in-Chief of National Geographic Al Arabiya Magazine, published by Abu Dhabi Media which also broadcasts National Geographic Abu Dhabi TV Channel supports this view. As a third-time Photomentaries judge and a photography enthusiast, Al Hammadi knows exactly what to look for in a winning image.

Al Hammadi said, "Every photographer dreams of being published in National Geographic magazine, which is known for featuring the most emotive, engaging photographs, taken by some of the most renowned photographers on the planet. Photomentaries gives Middle East photographers the chance to realise their dream by being featured alongside some of the finest photography out there. This is an exciting, once in a lifetime opportunity that any photography enthusiast shouldn't miss."

He will be joined in deciding the top three entries by long-term National Geographic photographer, Joe McNally. As a photographer and author, McNally has worked in 60 countries shooting stories and covers for many of the world's major magazines. He has several highly acclaimed collections to his name, including 'The Future of Flying', the first all-digital shoot for National Geographic (December 2003).

"This year, it's a pleasure to partner with Almarai Company to once more see the high calibre of work that local photographers are capable of, as they pay tribute to our region through this year's theme. As a household name in the region with strong roots in Arab culture, Almarai is the ideal company to collaborate with for this competition" said Rohit.

"As a supporter of Arab talent, we are proud to join forces with National Geographic Abu Dhabi to promote photography in the Middle East. Creative talent must be nurtured and recognised in our region, and the Photomentaries competition provides an exciting opportunity for all artists to explore their abilities," said Hussam Abdulqader, Head of Communications and PR, Almarai Company.

The Photomentaries competition, presented by Almarai Company and National Geographic Abu Dhabi, is part of NGAD's annual Photomentaries month, which sees two back-to-back episodes featuring National Geographic photographers' exploits aired every Tuesday night.