The Doha Film Festival has unveiled its anticipated ‘Made in Qatar’ programme, a dedicated showcase for emerging filmmakers from the nation’s creative community. Presented by the Doha Film Institute (DFI), the selection features 10 short films from both Qatari and Qatar-based directors, highlighting the depth and imagination of the country’s cinematic talent.
Championing Homegrown Storytellers
The programme reaffirms the DFI’s commitment to amplifying authentic voices that capture Qatar’s evolving cultural identity. Many of the selected films have received support through the Institute’s training initiatives, grants, and the Qatari Film Fund, demonstrating a sustained effort to build a robust local film ecosystem.
Fatma Hassan Al Remaihi, Festival Director and CEO of DFI, described the initiative as both a duty and a privilege. “Our storytellers open windows to our world, share our unique culture, and connect others to our own narratives,” she said. “Through the ‘Made in Qatar’ programme, we celebrate the courage and creativity of filmmakers who are defining our cinematic identity and shaping a cultural legacy that extends far beyond our borders.” This focus on nurturing local talent mirrors a wider regional trend, as seen with initiatives like the BOXO Movie Fund unveiled at GITEX 2025 to unite Hollywood expertise with Gulf creative vision.
The 2025 Film Selection and Jury
This year’s diverse lineup offers fresh perspectives on contemporary life. The selected films are:
* “Al-Aqiq: Darkness of Virtuality” by Mohammed Al Suwaidi and Kummam Al Maadeed
* “Baba is Melting” by Karim Emara
* “Fahad the Furious” by Justin Kramer
* “Is This A Sign” by Maria Joseph
* “Project Aisha” by Fahad Al Nahdi
* “Qadha’ w Qadar” by Maryam Al Mohammed
* “A Palm Branch” by Mahdi Al Ali
* “Theatre of Dreams” by Fatma Al Ghanim
* “Yom El Juma'” by Haya Al Kuwari
* “Villa 187” by Eiman Mirghani
A jury will recognise the work of this new generation of talent. It will be led by actress and director Afef Ben Mahmoud, who will be joined by Fahad Al Kuwari, Head of Development at Katara Studios, and producer Alaa Alasad.
Festival Vision and Key Partners
The Doha Film Festival is scheduled to take place from 20-28 November 2025. Key partners for the event include Katara, Media City Qatar’s Film Committee, and Visit Qatar. The festival will utilise iconic locations across the city, including the Katara Cultural Village, Msheireb Downtown Doha, and the Museum of Islamic Art, transforming them into vibrant hubs for cultural exchange. The use of such prominent urban spaces reflects the city’s ongoing growth, which includes major initiatives like the Qatar, Egypt sign deal to implement $29.7bn urban development project.
By bringing together filmmakers and audiences from around the globe, the festival aims to provide a meaningful cultural experience in Doha. The event is designed to reflect the diversity and ambition of the region through its wide selection of films, panel discussions, and public events.
