The Film Committee at Media City Qatar, led by H.E. Hassan Al Thawadi, has officially launched the Qatar Screen Production Incentive (QSPI) programme. This initiative aims to establish Qatar as a premier global hub for film, television, and screen content production, representing a significant advancement in the country’s efforts to cultivate a top-tier, internationally connected creative economy.
The QSPI offers producers a cash rebate of up to 50% on qualifying expenses incurred in Qatar. This structure features a base rebate of 40%, with the potential for an additional 10% uplift for projects that contribute to industry growth by hiring Qatari talent, investing in local training initiatives, or showcasing Qatari culture. Moreover, the programme provides regional flexibility, enabling productions to film certain segments in neighbouring Arab countries; expenses up to 25% of a project’s qualifying costs can also be rebated if incurred in a designated regional partner country.
This initiative is a cornerstone of the Film Committee’s strategic vision to create a sustainable, data-driven production ecosystem in the Middle East and North Africa while fostering connections with the Global South. The launch coincided with significant announcements from international partners, including Sony Pictures, NEON, Miramax, Parrot Analytics, and Company 3, all of which unveiled plans to establish new operations in Doha during the Film Committee’s Industry Days.
H.E. Hassan Al Thawadi stated, “The introduction of the Qatar Screen Production Incentive Programme demonstrates our enduring commitment to nurturing a creative economy that harmonises cultural authenticity with global aspirations. Qatar welcomes filmmakers and storytellers from within the country, the region, the Global South, and beyond. We are providing the essential infrastructure, talent, and incentives to help bring remarkable stories to fruition.”
He further emphasised, “This initiative will complement existing efforts. We are keen to listen to industry needs and develop a transparent rebate programme that genuinely serves its interests. Our goal is to foster an environment that nurtures the finest local and regional talent to produce authentic narratives that resonate with global audiences.”
The QSPI is designed to appeal to productions of varying sizes and formats, including feature films, TV series, commercials, and post-production or VFX work. Eligible expenses encompass goods, services, and labour sourced both domestically and internationally. The programme aims not only to attract significant global productions but also to ensure that Qatari and regional creators equally benefit, prioritising capacity building and industry training alongside financial incentives.
Applications for the QSPI are set to open in Q2 2026, with detailed guidelines to be issued by the Film Committee at Media City Qatar. This initiative is anticipated to stimulate substantial growth in Qatar’s film and television sector, aiding in economic diversification and supporting the nation’s broader development objectives under Qatar National Vision 2030.
The programme has been developed in collaboration with the international consultancy Olsberg SPI to ensure that the incentive aligns with global best practices and maximises benefits for Qatar’s burgeoning screen sector.
