Qatar’s Doha Film Institute Announces 22 Films for 2026 International Short Film Competition

Selection and Programme

Qatar’s Doha Film Institute has unveiled the 22 films chosen for the International Short Film Competition at the 2026 Doha Film Festival, scheduled to run from 19 November to 27 November. The announcement reinforces Qatar’s growing role as a hub for cinematic arts in the Gulf. The lineup features two world premieres and 19 works that will be shown for the first time in the Middle East and North Africa, alongside a rich selection of international cinema and compelling stories from the Arab world. Together they bring together diverse cultures, continents and cinematic concepts from emerging and established directors, offering distinctive perspectives that highlight personal experiences, collective history and the complexities of a rapidly changing world.

Notable Films and Awards

Among the highlighted entries are “For the Competitors” by Federico Luis, which won the Golden Palm for Best Short Film at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, and “Moments of Happiness” by Shaden Safi Al‑Din Tazi, recipient of the Best Short Film award in the Horizons section at the 2026 Venice Film Festival. The competition offers a Best Short Film prize of 20,000 US dollars, a Best Director award worth 12,000 US dollars and a Best Acting Performance prize of 7,000 US dollars, together with a special commendation certificate.

Statement from Leadership

Fatima Hassan Al Rumaithi, Chief Executive Officer of the Doha Film Institute and Director of the Doha Film Festival, commented: “Short films give their creators the freedom to engage in bold creative experiments, challenge traditional templates, and present new perspectives on screen. They serve as a powerful reminder that cinema does not need large-scale production to leave a lasting impact, and at the Doha Film Festival, we celebrate this spirit of experimentation and discovery.” She added: “This year’s International Short Film Competition celebrates the diversity of independent cinema and its creative strength, as the selected films emerge from their communities and local experiences, while also addressing issues and experiences that transcend borders. We look forward to welcoming these voices in Doha.”

Jury and Festival Details

The jury comprises French‑Moroccan producer Karim Aitouna, Malaysian director Amanda Nell Eu and Swiss‑Rwandan actress and director Kajej Kagami. The Doha Film Festival 2026 will take place from 19 November to 27 November, welcoming filmmakers, audiences and prominent cinematic voices from the region and around the world.