The French Embassy in Bahrain announced the winner of its latest photography competition, presenting top honours to a Bahraini designer who envisioned a futuristic image of cooperation between the two nations using artificial intelligence (AI).

In its latest creative initiative, the French Embassy in Bahrain recently announced the winner of its photography competition, themed Bahrain with a French Touch. Moosa Silwadi, a Bahraini artist, architect and designer, emerged victorious for his AI-enhanced image that reimagines Franco-Bahraini ties through a futuristic lens. His winning artwork will now be featured on the embassy’s official greeting card for 2025–2026.

Moosa’s concept, created using the French AI tool, Sezam (sezam.ai), centred around the sea – a symbol of trade and cultural exchange between the two nations. He combined digital photography and AI-generated visuals to create what he describes as “blending both worlds into a single, cohesive composition that reflects the full depth of my vision.

“For this competition, I followed my passion for science fiction and futuristic themes,” he said. “It took several attempts before I captured the perfect shot. The final step was to merge the AI-generated imagery with the digital photograph.”

Out of 15 entries, five finalists were shortlisted before Moosa’s piece was selected. The Embassy hosted a gathering at the French Residence to honour his work, where Ambassador HE Eric Giraud-Telme presented him with a signed and framed print of the artwork.

Speaking about the initiative, the Ambassador said: “The idea behind the contest was to encourage participants to express their creativity by illustrating how Franco-Bahraini cooperation could be represented through the use of artificial intelligence. AI is a priority for France – a commitment reflected in the AI Action Summit held in Paris earlier this year. It will also be the theme of our upcoming 14th of July celebration.

“Moosa stood out by presenting a highly futuristic image that not only showcases the potential of AI but also projects us into a shared future shaped by innovation.”

He added that the project ties into the embassy’s wider engagement with local communities in Bahrain, including Amana Creative, Green Youth Hackathon and the upcoming Youth City Festival this summer, as well as the Digital November initiative later this year. Both upcoming events will feature workshops led by French experts exploring AI’s role in learning, innovation and artistic expression.

“These initiatives serve two main purposes: First, they aim to provide visibility, promotion and development opportunities for Bahraini youth. Second, they help foster a meaningful dialogue between France and Bahrain on global challenges and shared priorities,” he said.

The Ambassador believes such cultural initiatives will help strengthen the relationship between the two nations by reinforcing bilateral collaboration and deepening mutual understanding.

GO: FOLLOW THE EMBASSY ON INSTAGRAM @FRANCEBAHREIN FOR MORE INFORMATION.