Doha Film Festival announces 15 films for 2026 feature competition

The Doha Film Festival (DFF) today announced the list of 15 films participating in the 2026 International Feature Film Competition, with the participation of filmmakers from the Arab world, Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas.

Eleven of the films in the field were supported by the Doha Film Institute's grant program, while the list includes seven films by women directors, reflecting the festival's commitment to supporting independent cinema and voices from underrepresented regions.

Fatima Hassan Al Rumaihi, CEO of the Doha Film Institute and Director of the Doha Film Festival, said: "Cinema has an extraordinary ability to transcend voices and build bridges between communities, stressing that the festival was established to be a platform for these voices, especially for filmmakers who challenge traditional stereotypes to present stories that have not found their way to the screen and show the vast potential of independent cinema."

She added that this year's International Feature Film Competition brings together 15 films from around the world, reflecting the courage and imagination of its makers and their sense of urgency to tell these stories in the present, pointing out the importance of Doha being part of a journey, ensuring that these influential works are watched, shared, and remembered.

The International Feature Feature Film Competition includes premieres in the Middle East and North Africa, while a jury of five international specialists will award prizes for Best Feature Film worth US$75,000, Best Documentary Film worth US$50,000, Best Artistic Achievement worth US$45,000 and Best Acting Performance worth US$15,000.

The International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESI) will also join the Doha Film Festival 2026 through a three-member jury to award its award to the film that achieves the most outstanding achievement in the competition.

The Doha Film Festival 2026 is supported by several partners and sponsors, including key partners Katara Cultural Village, Media City Qatar – Film Commission, and Visit Qatar.

Taking place from 19 to 27 November 2026, the Doha Film Festival brings together filmmakers, audiences and leading voices in the film industry from the region and beyond.

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