At the recent Cannes Film Festival, the Doha Film Institute (DFI) introduces two new film festivals namely, Qumra Film Festival and Ajyal Film Festival. With an aim to encourage emerging filmmakers globally, DFI plans to inaugurate Qumra Film Festival in March 2014. The festival will mainly focus upon first and second-time directors offering collaborative opportunities for filmmakers all around the world. Showcasing feature-length and short films, this festival will include international jury for selection of awards.

DFI has now terminated its four-year long association with Tribeca putting an end to Doha Tribeca film festival in future. Also, Elia Suleiman, a famous writer, actor and director joined the Artistic Advisory board of the Doha film institute this year. Out-of-competition sections incorporate:

  • a panorama of films from contemporary auteurs, established directors and new talent, selected for their artistry, formal innovation and compelling subject matter
  • a carte-blanche section that invites acclaimed directors to share films that played a role in shaping their cinematic sensibility
  • a tribute that pays homage to the contributions of significant figures to the history of world cinema.

Focusing on directors’ initial works, the Qumra Film Festival will also arrange the exceptional screening of the first films of celebrated filmmakers. Apart from this, the festival days will comprise master classes, workshops, panels and the Doha Projects initiative, which puts together DFI award recipients with producers and giants from the film industry.

Another youth-oriented, community based event i.e. Ajyal Film Festival will take place for the first time in November, 2013 with the sole purpose of promoting cinema and film-related activities among families and educators in Doha.