The Doha Film Institute has recently shared new information about the upcoming Doha Film Festival, revealing that it will offer over $300,000 in awards.
Scheduled to take place from November 20 to 28, this will be the first run of the festival, which expands on the legacy of DFI’s Ajyal Film Festival, previously focused on youth and families.
The festival will showcase four competitive categories: the International Feature Film Competition, International Short Film Competition, the Ajyal Film Competition, which will be judged by a youth jury, and the Made in Qatar Competition, aimed at celebrating local filmmakers.
The announcement of the festival coincides with the 15th anniversary of the DFI’s establishment, which was first announced in Cannes in 2010 by the DFI Chair H.E Sheikha Al Mayassa.
At this year’s Cannes, the DFI is represented by eight films that benefited from its funding program, including entries in the Palme d’Or, Un Certain Regard, Critics’ Week, Directors’ Fortnight, and ACID.
The festival is part of the DFI’s broader initiative to promote film culture in Qatar and the broader Middle East and North Africa region. This includes providing year-round workshops, a grants program, and hosting the Qumra industry event each spring.
The International Feature Film Competition will be judged by five industry experts, with awards given for Best Narrative ($75,000), Best Documentary ($50,000), Best Artistic Achievement ($45,000), and Best Performance ($15,000), along with a Special Mention certificate.
Similarly, the International Short Film Competition will be judged by a panel of three, competing for Best Film – Narrative or Documentary ($20,000), Best Director ($12,000), and Best Performance ($7,000).
The Made in Qatar Competition will recognize local talent with awards for Best Short – Narrative or Documentary ($15,000), Best Director ($10,000), and Best Performance ($5,000).
The youth jury, aged 16-25, will decide the Ajyal Film Competition, awarding Best Feature – Narrative or Documentary ($35,000) and Best Short – Narrative or Documentary ($12,000).
An Audience Award will also be given, with the recipient receiving a certificate and trophy.
DFI’s Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, who is also the festival director, stated, “The Doha Film Festival is not just a film celebration but a platform for impactful storytelling that echoes significant voices shaping the global cinematic scene with authenticity and critical insights.”
She further emphasized, “This is a new chapter in our mission to support independent filmmakers, introduce fresh viewpoints, and encourage cultural dialogue through cinema. The festival will serve as a dynamic convergence point for movie enthusiasts, a showcase for compelling narratives, and a springboard for emerging film talents.”
Alremaihi added, “DFF builds on the strong foundation of the Ajyal Film Festival, offering a unique platform for creative expression and empowerment. We eagerly anticipate bringing together film enthusiasts to celebrate cinema’s unifying power in Doha this November.”
While retaining popular elements of the Ajyal Festival, the new event will introduce features that align with Qatar’s ambitions to become a major player in the global arts, culture, media, and entertainment sectors.
The festival will take place across Doha, with the Katara Cultural Village hosting red carpet events and premieres. The Msheireb Downtown Doha will act as the central hub for industry sessions and special events, and the Museum of Islamic Art will offer a venue for short film screenings.
Daniel Hayes is a business journalist with a focus on market trends, startups, and corporate strategies.
His sharp analysis and investigative reports make complex financial topics accessible to all readers.
