Doha:The Doha Film Festival 2026 is set to feature a significant showcase of Qatar's burgeoning screen industry with four feature films and a new original series, highlighting the country's growing capabilities in filmmaking.
According to Qatar News Agency, the festival's selection includes a mix of fiction, documentary, and series, demonstrating the diverse storytelling emerging from Qatar. This marks a collaborative effort among national institutions, creative talents, and international partners to further screen production in the region.
Featured in the Special Screenings program are three films supported by Media City Qatar "Jodari Meno" by Jamal Al Khanji, "A Very Ordinary Life" by Mohamed Deniz, and "First to Fly" by Rodrigo Vazquez Salessi. Additionally, "When the News Breaks You" by Hamad Al Hajri and a special episode of the original series "Elzam" from Katara Studios are part of the lineup. Both "Jodari Meno" and "When the News Breaks You" were beneficiaries of the Doha Film Institute's Grants Programme and participated in mentorship at Qumra 2025.
This selection underscores Qatar's evolution into a hub for creative work, supported by entities such as Doha Film Institute, Media City Qatar, and Katara Studios. These organizations are fostering a supportive environment for filmmakers and creative talent at every stage of production.
Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, CEO of Doha Film Institute and Director of Doha Film Festival, emphasized the significance of presenting these projects as a reflection of Qatar's role in empowering global stories and supporting creative talent. She highlighted the importance of national entities working together to build a sustainable industry and connect Qatar's talent with the world.
Hamad Omar AlMannai, CEO of Media City Qatar, expressed excitement about the selection of three Media City-supported films for the festival, noting the global platform it provides for regional filmmakers. He highlighted the media ecosystem's role in fostering media growth in Qatar and the region.
"Jodari Meno," directed by Jamal Al Khanji, explores an intimate journey into obsession and mortality. "A Very Ordinary Life" by Mohamed Deniz, a Qatar-Morocco production, revolves around a retired Qatari pilot and a young Moroccan art teacher, unknowingly connected as father and daughter. "First to Fly" by Rodrigo Vazquez Salessi tells the story of two young gymnasts breaking new ground in international competition.
"When the News Breaks You" by Hamad Al Hajri examines the challenges faced by journalists in conflict zones across the Middle East. "Elzam," an eight-part documentary series produced by Jassim Al Romaihi and Ahmed Al Baker, documents the traditional falconry culture in Qatar and the wider Arab world.
This collection of works exemplifies Qatar's transition into a nurturing ground for creative talent, capable of producing and exporting stories to international audiences, while contributing to a sustainable creative ecosystem.