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. Announced during the Doha Film Festival 2025, the partnership marks a major step in the development of Qatar’s creative industries and its ambition to become a leading media capital in the Middle East.
A Strategic Vision for Qatar’s Media Sector
The collaboration aims to build a state-of-the-art facility that will serve creators in Qatar, the wider region, and the Global South. Hassan Al Thawadi, Chairman of the Qatar Film Committee, stated that the partnership embodies the country’s vision to support the industry’s best talent.
“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,” Al Thawadi said.
Phased Development and Expert Guidance
The agreement’s first phase will involve a joint research and evaluation project to develop the studio, which Company 3 will operate. As part of this initial stage, the post-production house will provide technical, creative, and operational guidance to establish a high-end creative environment. The Film Committee will support the project through a structured funding and facilitation framework, reinforcing Qatar’s goal to become a production hub for the Middle East and Africa.
Attracting Global Talent and Productions
A key component of the collaboration involves consulting on the creation of a local production and post-production rebate scheme. This initiative is part of Qatar’s broader strategy to attract leading international studios, streaming services, and filmmakers to the country. The move to build a competitive media ecosystem comes as Middle East competition heats up for international investment and talent across various sectors.
The Film Committee will coordinate with local stakeholders and government partners to ensure the project aligns with the nation’s wider creative economy goals. This includes providing logistical coordination and operational support for the initial exploration phase.
A New Era for Regional Post-Production
Company 3 will bring its global expertise to the region, helping to design creative workflows, develop local and regional talent, and provide access to leading infrastructure and tools. 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,” Sonnenfeld commented. “This partnership represents the foundation for a new era of post-production excellence in the Middle East.”
This long-term partnership is set to deliver significant outcomes across creative, technological, and training dimensions, positioning Doha as a central player in the global film and television industry.
