Dubai Photographer Wins Flame Tree Season Prize with Unique Shot

Sep 7, 2026

64 min

Sep 7, 2026 11:30

Dubai photographer's mid-air shot of viral hijabi footballer wins top Flame Tree Season prize

## Award-Winning Photograph

A Dubai-based photographer, Jaseel Peralasseri, has won the top prize in the Flame Tree Season Photography Competition. His winning image features a hijabi freestyle footballer, Hadiya Hakeem, captured mid-air beneath a blooming flame tree. This competition, organized by Dubai Culture and HIPA, was held under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

## Concept and Execution

Jaseel, an Indian expat from Kerala, aimed to symbolize empowerment and creativity through his photograph. He collaborated with Hadiya, a viral freestyle footballer, to bring his vision to life. The photo shoot took place at Al Jaddaf Walk in July, with Hadiya performing her skills in a red abaya and hijab, complementing the flame tree's blossoms.

## Hadiya's Journey

Hadiya, originally from Kerala, grew up in Qatar and developed her football skills with her brothers. After moving back to Kerala, she taught herself freestyle football and gained recognition through social media. Her participation in events like the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 further boosted her profile.

## Personal Triumphs

For Jaseel, this was his first photography competition, and winning the Dh15,000 prize was a significant achievement. The recognition has motivated both Jaseel and Hadiya to continue pursuing their passions in Dubai, where they feel empowered to grow and succeed.

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