UAE photographers to team up with rescue dogs for a joyful, purpose-driven project
Get your cameras ready and your creativity unleashed!
K9 Friends, one of the UAE’s oldest and most cherished dog shelters, is proud to announce the launch of its first-ever Calendar Photography Competition, an exciting new initiative calling on local photographers to help create the official 2026 K9 Friends Calendar.
View this post on Instagram
This year, the beloved annual calendar is getting a creative makeover, transforming from a fan-favorite fundraiser into a collaborative artistic showcase.
The theme for 2026? “Treat Yourself” – a celebration of life’s little luxuries, seen through the pawspective of some of the UAE’s most lovable rescue pups.
A new leash on creativity
In a UAE-wide open call, professional and semi-professional photographers aged 21+ are invited to team up with real rescue dogs from the K9 Friends shelter.
Their mission? To produce standout portraits that reflect joy, indulgence, and comfort – from spa days and road trips to guilty pleasures and cozy nights in.
A calendar with a cause
The K9 Friends calendar has long been a staple among animal lovers in the UAE, both as a cherished keepsake and a vital fundraising tool.
For 2026, the initiative is evolving into something even more meaningful – a celebration of second chances told through powerful imagery and heartfelt storytelling.
You might also like: RTA launches AI-driven traffic platform to keep Dubai moving
Winning photographs will be featured in the final calendar, with full credit given to the photographers across all campaign materials.
In addition, one standout image will earn the title of Overall Winner, while the public will vote for a ‘Community Favourite’ via K9 Friends’ social media platforms.
Exhibition and launch event
Later this year, K9 Friends will host a calendar launch event and public exhibition, giving everyone involved – from photographers and volunteers to dog lovers across the UAE.
This is an opportunity to come together, view the final works, and meet the real stars of the show: the rescue dogs themselves.
Key Competition Info
Competition Opens: 12 August 2025
Final Submission Deadline: 12 September 2025
Who Can Enter: UAE-based professional and semi-professional photographers aged 21+
Requirements: Participants must be available to visit the shelter and follow all safety and dog-handling guidelines.
How to Enter
To apply, send an email to: [email protected] and [email protected]
With the subject line: ‘Calendar Photography Competition’
Once signed up, selected entrants will be matched with a rescue dog and receive the full brief, safety guidelines, and submission details.
Follow Yalla for all the latest news
