The DFI is dedicated to film appreciation, education, and building a dynamic film industry that focuses on nurturing regional storytellers while maintaining a global scope. It serves as an all-encompassing film hub in Doha and a resource for the region and the rest of the world. The DFI hosts two major events each year: the Doha Film Festival and Qumra. Since its inception in 2010, the DFI has financially supported over 1000 Arab and international projects through the development and post-production stages. It is also the first Arab organization to have scored 11 Oscar nominations for eight consecutive years—an unprecedented achievement in our world.
Doha Film Festival: In November 2025, the inaugural edition opened with the Oscar?nominated THE VOICE OF HIND RAJABA, a recipient of the institute’s grants program, and unveiled a standout lineup of 97 films from 62 countries. Qumra 2026: The 12th edition, held online due to safety measures, provided mentorship support to 49 projects from 39 countries — 43 from the Arab region and North Africa, and 6 international. 2025 Spring and Fall Grants: Last year, the Fall cycle supported 57 projects from 46 countries, while the Spring cycle backed 45 Arab and international projects from over 35 countries, marking a total of 102 projects in 2025.
