The Flamboyant tree topped the list of public interest and social media conversation in the United Arab Emirates at the start of last May, following a tweet by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Dubai Future Foundation. The post included a video celebrating the Flamboyant tree, known for its broad branches, green leaves, and orange blossoms, which typically flowers in May each year, adorning the city of Dubai until the end of July.

His Highness said: "In Dubai, the Flamboyant tree blooms in summer, renewing life in our homes, our gatherings, our streets, and our gardens… and with it blooms a city that knows only life and beauty."

His Highness also directed that planting of the Flamboyant tree be intensified across streets, homes, recreational spaces, and public parks in Dubai, with seedlings to be made available and distributed to those wishing to grow the tree in their homes or farms.

The positive response in Dubai exceeded expectations, with a variety of initiatives emerging in support of this aesthetic visual symbol, which carries numerous benefits. The Flamboyant tree is distinguished by its rapid growth in its early years, naturally forming a wide, beautiful canopy without the need for intensive care. Its canopy can span approximately 15 metres, providing ample shade and contributing to a reduction in ground temperature beneath it of around 5 degrees.

From an artistic perspective, HIPA, in cooperation with Dubai's Culture and Arts Authority, Dubai Culture, announced the launch of a photography competition for the Flamboyant tree season. The competition invites photography communities, urban documentation enthusiasts, creators of contextually rich artistic framing, and those interested in visual symbolism and its aesthetic expression to participate by visiting the HIPA or Dubai Culture accounts for details on how to enter and compete for three prizes with a total value of 30,000 dirhams (AED).

Flash

The competition is accepting submissions until 31 July 2026

Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Award

www.hipa.ae