Doha: Doha Film Institute (DFI) has announced that submissions for the 2025 Qatari Film Fund (QFF) are now open. In a press release, DFI said that Qatari directors and writers can submit their applications until Feb. 13, 2025, covering various genres, including narrative, documentary, and 2D animation projects. Applicants can add production feasibility in their scripts, particularly regarding location numbers and cast size.
According to Qatar News Agency, the selection process involves three comprehensive stages, beginning with initial project submission to be sent by email to [email protected], followed by interviews for shortlisted candidates, and final selection. Those who are not selected will also receive valuable feedback and development suggestions through the Institute's Learning Initiatives, with the opportunity to reapply in future funding cycles.
DFI CEO Fatma Hassan Alremaihi commented on the importance of the Qatar Film Fund in developing the national film industry, citing its role in providing crucial support to both emerging and established filmmakers. Alremaihi emphasized the fund's contribution to building a strong film ecosystem in Qatar, as well as empowering storytellers to bring their unique visions to life, thus positioning the country as a hub for cinematic excellence. Recipients of the Qatari Film Fund will receive creative and technical training and mentoring through DFI's Learning Initiatives, with the institute's team of experts working closely with successful applicants throughout the development, production, and post-production stages.
For feature films, the support includes script notes and feedback, script editors, writers' fees, legal services, location scouting, budgeting and scheduling, and casting. Feature film treatments and screenplays at any level of progress are eligible for development funding valued at up to QR 182,500, which includes development services, mentorship, equipment, and other support from the Institute. The duration for feature-length films is defined as 80 minutes or longer, and the director applying for funding must have completed at least one short film.
Short films are eligible for funding valued at up to QR 182,500, which includes development, production, and post-production funds, mentorship, equipment, and production support from the Institute. They must adhere to specific duration limits: short narrative films should not exceed 12 minutes, 2D animation should be limited to 7 minutes, and documentaries can run up to 30 minutes.
Since its inception, the Qatari Film Fund has supported numerous projects, with "Above the Tamarind Tree" by Buthyna Al Mohammadi and "I Lay For You To Sleep" by Ali Al Hajri gaining acclaim at the 2024 Ajyal Film Festival. Two QFF projects awarded in 2024 are currently in pre-production: "Sad Boy: The Movie" by Qatari artist N and LS, and "Maria and the Unicorn" by filmmaker Kholoud Al Ali.
The Fund is committed to developing up to four feature films and the development, production, and post-production of up to eight short films annually, thus supporting the skills and accomplishments of Qatari filmmakers.