Photo of the Week: Abdulrahman Al-Sahli

Saudi photographer Abdulrahman Al-Sahli has spent more than two decades documenting Mecca, building a practice shaped by patience, intuition, and anti staging. Since 2004, his work has focused on the city’s quieter, often overlooked moments. Shooting under the name “Heartmecca,” Al-Sahli approaches photography as a deeply personal exchange with place, describing his images as “love letters” to the city.

Recently interviewed by SceneNowSaudi, Al-Sahli reflected on his process, explaining that his practice can be distilled into what he called 'the art of waiting'. “This city chooses whom to give its face to,” he says.

Why did you choose this image, and how did you approach capturing it from above?

I chose this image because it represents the essence of simplicity and beauty at the same time. From above, it looks like a carefully composed scene full of detail, but on closer reflection, it reveals a sincere human moment, bringing people together around iftar tables. What drew me most was the visual repetition of the tables and people.

What does this photograph represent to you beyond documentation?

For me, this image is a story about giving. It shows how simple moments can turn into something extraordinary when people come together with one heart, reflecting a true sense of generosity and connection.