The 2025 Doha Film Festival (DFF), organised by the Doha Film Institute (DFI), is set to feature an impressive lineup, including four world premieres and 49 premieres from the Middle East and North Africa. The festival will showcase 97 films from 62 countries at prominent locations across Doha from November 20 to 28. In addition to film screenings, the event will feature musical performances, creative workshops, community activities, and Geekdom experiences, transforming Doha into a cultural hub.
Over US$300,000 in awards will be distributed across four competitive sections, alongside special screenings and a rich cultural program. This year’s festival will also debut an original theme song by renowned Qatari artist Dana Al Fardan, crafted in collaboration with Katara Studios and the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra.
During a press conference, DFI presented a program committed to bold storytelling and to amplifying underrepresented voices in cinema.
Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, Festival Director and CEO of DFI, stated: “At the heart of the Doha Film Festival is connection—through spontaneous dialogues, shared emotions, and the way cinema highlights our shared humanity. For the past 15 years, we have celebrated the achievements of our filmmakers. This year’s festival reflects Qatar’s expanding creative aspirations and our enduring belief in cinema’s ability to unite and inspire. With 97 films from 62 nations, our program strives to elevate voices that often go unheard, offering audiences fresh perspectives and communal experiences.”
She further remarked, “This year also marks a significant milestone in Qatar’s cultural narrative. Evolution Nation, an 18-month initiative commemorating 50 years of our first national museum, serves as a reminder of our creative progress. From preserving our heritage to envisioning our future, Qatar remains a beacon of cultural expression and artistic innovation.”
The festival will kick off with The Voice of Hind Rajab, directed by Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania—a project proudly supported by DFI’s grants. This film sets a resonant tone for the festival, emphasising cinema’s role in addressing injustice and conveying truth.
In the International Feature Film Competition, 13 films will compete for top accolades, 12 of which are making their Middle East and North Africa debuts. Notable titles include The President’s Cake, Once Upon a Time in Gaza, Khartoum, and Divine Comedy.
Majid Al Remaihi, DFI Programmer and filmmaker, expressed: “This Competition curates audacious films from the Arab world and beyond, showcasing stories that provoke thought and reflect both local and global realities. We are committed to highlighting the most promising cinematic voices today.”
The International Short Film Competition features 20 titles selected from a record 1,600 entries, with 19 premiering in the MENA region. The lineup includes Palme d’Or winner I’m Glad You’re Dead Now, Beneath Which Rivers Flow, L’mina, and Samba Infinito.
Aya Al-Blouchi, Film Programmer at DFI, commented: “The program connects filmmakers worldwide through the shared language of cinema, showcasing the immediacy and creativity of their visions.”
The Ajyal Film Competition continues its tradition of empowering a youth jury to recognise the winners of Best Feature Film and Best Short Film from a selection of 5 feature films and 11 short films.
Rawda Al-Thani, DFI Film Programmer and director, noted: “The Ajyal Film Competition brings DFI’s mission to life, inspiring youth ages 16-25 to think, feel, and engage through cinema. It highlights the immense potential of young audiences to influence the future.”
DFF 2025 will also host a prestigious lineup of guests, including Steven Soderbergh, Ramy Youssef, Michaela Coel, Engin Altan Duzyatan, Hazal Kaya, Jassim Al Nabhan, Dorra Zarrouk, Saleh Bakri, and Hiam Abbas.
The Made in Qatar program will present 10 short films celebrating local talent, with a jury led by Afef Ben Mahmoud, alongside Fahad Al-Kuwari and Alaa Alasad, showcasing the originality and creativity emerging from Qatar’s vibrant film scene.
Families can look forward to outdoor screenings at Cinema Under the Stars at the Museum of Islamic Art, ensuring a festive atmosphere for all attendees.
