Dubai: An exhibition of 50 shortlisted artworks for the Shaikha Manal Young Artist Award in City Walk is attracting hundreds of visitors every day.

The exhibition is open to the public until Saturday from 10am to 10pm.

The ninth Shaikha Manal Young Artist Award is an annual visual arts competition that aims to encourage, recognise and promote emerging artists from the UAE and is especially popular among university students majoring in art, design and multimedia.

The open-air exhibition is being held under the patronage of Shaikha Manal Bint Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Women Establishment and wife of Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Presidential Affairs.

Over the course of the exhibition, participants may creatively capture moments from the exhibition to post on Instagram using the hashtag: #ClickYAA.

The three winners for the best photograph will win thousands of dirhams.

Shaikha Manal said: “I have always held a deep regard for the role of the arts within the framework of any society and in the understanding that art is a universal language and a powerful tool for intercultural communication. This realisation comes with a responsibility to further its influence and impact through sustainable arts development.

“The Shaikha Manal Young Artist Award was born to fulfil this mission; and what began nine years ago, as a humble platform for the recognition and support of the young emerging artists, has rapidly evolved into one of the most important art competitions in the region. The impact of this award is a reflection of the creative potential of the UAE, ready to shine and thrive when given a platform for expression.”

The public is also invited to vote for their favourite art work for ‘The People’s Choice Award’ through the website’s online voting feature. The People’s Choice Award is distinctive in that it is the only award that is not conferred by the jury. Rather, it is bestowed on the finalist artist whose work receives the most public votes.

To view the 50 shortlisted entries and to submit your vote for ‘The People’s Choice Award’ please visit www.youngartistaward.ae.