The Doha Film Institute (DFI) has announced the programming and awards lineup for the upcoming Doha Film Festival (DFF), reaffirming its commitment to promoting bold, original storytelling while amplifying underrepresented voices and diverse perspectives in global cinema. This announcement was made during the 78th Cannes Film Festival, coinciding with DFI’s 15th anniversary, which was first launched in Cannes in 2010 by DFI Chair H.E. Sheikha Al Mayassa.

Scheduled for November 20 to 28, 2025, the festival will distribute over $300,000 in prize money and will showcase a vibrant official selection across four competition categories:

• International Feature Film Competition – highlighting compelling new works by both emerging and established filmmakers;
• International Short Film Competition – focusing on innovative storytelling in short form;
• Ajyal Film Competition – judged by a youth jury providing generational insights;
• Made in Qatar Competition – celebrating the creativity and talent of local filmmakers.

The festival promises a multifaceted experience, featuring industry sessions, community screenings, youth-focused programming, and a variety of events that will transform Doha into a global hub for filmmakers, artists, and audiences united by a passion for thought-provoking cinema.

Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, Chief Executive Officer of Doha Film Institute and Festival Director, stated: “The Doha Film Festival is not just a celebration of cinema; it serves as a platform for purpose-driven storytelling that amplifies important voices, redefining the global film landscape with depth, nuance, and truth.”

She further emphasized: “This festival represents the next chapter in our ongoing mission to nurture independent filmmakers, inspire new perspectives, and foster cultural dialogue through cinema. It will be a vibrant meeting point for film lovers, a stage for powerful stories, and a launchpad for a new generation of cinematic talent. DFF expands upon the strong foundation we established with the Ajyal Film Festival, creating a unique platform for self-expression and creative empowerment. We eagerly anticipate guests joining us in Doha this November to celebrate the unifying power of film.”

Each competition will feature awards that not only recognize excellence in filmmaking but also provide significant financial support and international exposure. The International Feature Film Competition will be judged by a five-member jury and will include awards such as:

• Best Narrative – $75,000
• Best Documentary – $50,000
• Best Artistic Achievement – $45,000
• Best Performance – $15,000
• Special Mention certificate.

The International Short Film Competition, overseen by a three-member jury, will award:

• Best Film – Narrative or Documentary – $20,000
• Best Director – $12,000
• Best Performance – $7,000

Meanwhile, the Made in Qatar Competition will honor local talent with awards for:

• Best Short – Narrative or Documentary – $15,000
• Best Director – $10,000
• Best Performance – $5,000

This further reflects DFI’s strong commitment to supporting homegrown storytellers.

Continuing its tradition, the Ajyal Film Competition will feature a youth jury aged 16 to 25, who will present awards for:

• Best Feature – Narrative or Documentary – $35,000
• Best Short – Narrative or Documentary – $12,000

An Audience Award, accompanied by a certificate and trophy, will also be presented during the festival.

DFF will activate iconic locations throughout Doha, with Katara Cultural Village hosting red carpet events and premieres, Msheireb Downtown Doha serving as the central hub for industry activities, and the Museum of Islamic Art providing an intimate venue for short film screenings.

The complete festival program, including jury members and competition film titles, will be unveiled in the coming months.