Xposure 2026 Marks 10 Years With New Hadara Stage and Bigger Learning Programme in Sharjah
Image used for illustrative purpose. Photo: WAM
Sharjah is getting ready to host a bigger Xposure International Photography Festival in 2026. The event celebrates its 10th year with a new platform called the Hadara Stage and a larger Stage X. Xposure 2026 will take place from January 29 to February 4 at Aljada, Sharjah. The Sharjah Government Media Bureau is organising the seven-day festival. It will welcome photographers, filmmakers and creative experts from many countries.
The festival will feature more than 126 talks and panel sessions. These sessions will focus on photography, film and visual storytelling. Well-known global experts will lead the discussions. The new Hadara Stage will focus on culture, dialogue and shared human stories. Stage X will offer more learning opportunities this year. Visitors can join 72 hands-on workshops and attend over 280 portfolio review sessions. These activities will help beginners and professionals improve their skills and plan their careers.
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Athens is the Guest of Honour at Xposure 2026. A special panel will explore stories of migration, culture and humanity. The session will show how photography connects Greece, the Middle East and the wider world. Another session will focus on life in Afghanistan. The talk will share real stories about women and daily struggles. It will explain how photography can protect memories while respecting safety and ethics.
Photographers will also learn how to work in difficult places. These talks will explain how trust, patience and respect help photographers work safely in sensitive areas. The Hadara Stage will also host sessions on film, storytelling and wildlife protection. Speakers will discuss real challenges in documentary filmmaking. Topics include safety, truth and responsibility.
Xposure 2026 will offer workshops for all skill levels. These sessions will show how photographers turn ideas into strong images. Topics include street photography, landscapes and documentary work. Portfolio reviews remain a key part of the festival. Photographers will meet editors and experts one-on-one. They will receive clear advice to improve their work and plan future projects.
With new stages, more workshops and global voices, Xposure 2026 aims to inspire creativity and learning. The festival continues to grow as one of the region’s leading photography events.
