The Film Committee at Media City Qatar has signed a significant agreement with the global post-production firm Company 3 to establish a dedicated visual effects (VFX) studio in Doha. The deal, confirmed during the Doha Film Festival 2025, represents a major step in developing Qatar’s creative industries and solidifies its reputation as an emerging media capital in the Middle East, supported by advanced facilities and a growing talent pool.
A Vision for Qatar’s Creative Future
This partnership is designed to position Doha as a premier destination for film and television post-production. Hassan al-Thawadi, Chairman of the Qatar Film Committee, stated that the collaboration embodies the country’s vision “to support the very best creators in Qatar, the region and the Global South.” He added, “With Company 3’s world-renowned expertise in visual storytelling and our commitment to building advanced creative infrastructure, Doha is poised to become a destination for world-class post-production and visual effects.”
The initial phase involves a joint exploration to develop a studio operated by Company 3 in Qatar. This move highlights the country’s investment in state-of-the-art infrastructure to attract top-tier creative projects.
Bringing Global Expertise to Doha
Company 3, an award-winning visual effects powerhouse, will provide crucial technical, creative, and operational guidance. The firm will help design creative workflows, develop local and regional talent, and provide access to leading industry tools and technology.
Stefan Sonnenfeld, CEO of Company 3, expressed his enthusiasm for the project. “The Film Committee’s forward-thinking approach to developing a sustainable creative ecosystem aligns perfectly with our mission to empower storytellers through technology and artistry,” he said. Sonnenfeld believes the partnership will establish “the foundation for a new era of post-production excellence in the Middle East.”
Building a Supportive Ecosystem
The Film Committee will facilitate the project by coordinating with local stakeholders and government partners. Its responsibilities include providing logistical and operational support, as well as establishing a funding framework for the initial exploration phase. This ensures the collaboration delivers tangible results across creative, technological, and training sectors.
A key component of the strategy includes consultation on a new local production and post-production rebate scheme. This financial incentive is part of Qatar’s broader ambition to attract leading international studios, streaming services, and filmmakers to produce their content within the country.
This long-term partnership aims to create a comprehensive creative hub in the region. By combining Company 3’s global expertise with Qatar’s strategic investment, the initiative seeks to build a sustainable ecosystem that will serve the film and media industries across the Middle East and Africa for years to come.
