Three Arab Photographers Selected for 2025 World Press Photo Contest

The 2025 World Press Photo Contest has recognized three Arab photographers for their striking visual storytelling, capturing moments of resilience, devastation, and survival. Selected from 59,320 entries by 3,778 photographers across 141 countries, their work stands among 42 winning images that highlight “the most pressing global issues today”.

Palestinian photographer Samar Abu Elouf’s portrait of a young Gazan amputee is one of the most striking images to emerge from this year’s competition. Taken in Doha on June 28th, 2024, the photograph features Mahmoud, a boy who lost both arms above the elbow in an Israeli airstrike on Gaza. Now living in Qatar, he is captured navigating daily tasks with his feet—a testament to both loss and perseverance. Abu Elouf’s image is also in the running for the World Press Photo of the Year award, set to be announced on April 17th.

Fellow Palestinian photojournalist Ali Jadallah was recognized for his stark documentation of the aftermath of Israel’s invasion of Gaza. His image, part of the story ‘Gaza Under Israeli Attack’, shows residents of Khan Younis returning to what remains of their homes on April 7th, 2024 just days after Israeli troops withdrew. The photograph distills the long shadow of destruction.

Meanwhile, Sudanese photographer, Mosab Abushama offers a jarring juxtaposition of violence and celebration. His winning image, taken in Omdurman in January 2024, captures a groom at his wedding, one hand gripping a pistol while a rifle leans against the wall behind him. The photograph reflects how even moments of joy are framed by the specter of war.