What originated as an impromptu family photography session has evolved into a distinctive cultural phenomenon in Sharjah, thanks to the creative vision of 35-year-old Emirati photographer Muhammad Al Mazmi. The Al Jada roundabout, once merely a traffic intersection, has transformed into an unofficial gathering point for automotive enthusiasts seeking distinctive photographic portraits of their vehicles against the urban landscape.
Al Mazmi’s journey into photography began during childhood, sparked by his fascination with preserving memories through imagery. His father introduced him to camera operation at age seven, planting the seeds of what would become a lifelong passion. In 2008, he acquired his first professional camera and subsequently developed a diverse portfolio encompassing portraits, nature, street photography, and cultural events.
The automotive photography movement emerged unexpectedly approximately one year ago when Al Mazmi visited the roundabout to photograph his brothers’ cars. The spontaneous interest from other motorists prompted him to share his work on TikTok, generating immediate and substantial public response. Followers began identifying him as ‘the photographer of Al Jada,’ establishing his reputation within the community.
Despite the public nature of his photography sessions, Al Mazmi maintains rigorous ethical standards regarding privacy protection. He explicitly avoids random photography, instead coordinating with subjects through social media platforms or accepting direct requests. This approach enables him to capture not only the aesthetic qualities of vehicles but also the personal narratives and human connections within automotive culture.
One particularly memorable photograph depicts two individuals exchanging a traditional Emirati nose touch inside their vehicle, illustrating Al Mazmi’s ability to document cultural moments alongside automotive subjects. His scheduling now operates through community requests via Snapchat, where enthusiasts track his appearance dates.
Looking forward, Al Mazmi intends to continue his roundabout photography sessions, viewing them as a natural extension of his fundamental photographic philosophy: documenting emotions and memories for future reflection. The phenomenon demonstrates how organic community initiatives can redefine public spaces and create unexpected cultural gatherings.