Open Call: 2026 Arab Documentary Photography Program

Nader Bahsoun

The Arab Fund for Arts and Culture, the Prince Claus Fund and the Magnum Foundation are pleased to announce the open call for the 12th cycle of the Arab Documentary Photography Program (ADPP).

About the Program

Launched in 2014, the Arab Documentary Photography Program (ADPP) has supported over 120 photographers whose creative approaches to visual storytelling challenge conventional narratives about the region. Now entering its twelth year, the program continues to amplify essential stories in the Arab region and beyond.

The program provides up to 8 photographers with a $7,000 grant to work on their projects in their country of residence over a period of 10 months. The grant may be used to begin a new project or to complete work on an existing project. In addition, ADPP grantees will benefit from mentorship provided by distinguished program mentors and will be required to attend three specialized workshops (two in-person and one virtual) to help them develop and produce their projects and consider avenues for distribution.m.

To see previous projects and grantees, please visit www.arabdocphotography.org.

Eligibility

Photographers from and working in the Arab region are invited to submit proposals that touch on social issues and realities relevant to the region. Applicants who have had to flee their home countries since 2012 due to political unrest are also eligible so long as their proposed projects are related to the region. 

Application Process

Applications must be submitted online in English by December 10, 2025 – 5pm Beirut time (GMT+2). Applications are available in both English and Arabic.

Applicants will be evaluated by an independent committee composed of experts and artists drawing from diverse backgrounds and originating from various parts of the Arab region and beyond.

Photographers may propose to work in any narrative style, and even include audio and/or video elements. 

Applications are submitted through the Arab Fund for Arts and Culture. Applicants must create a profile to apply, or log in if they have previously registered.