Doha Film Institute selects 22 films for International Short Film Competition
<p>Doha: The Doha Film Institute announced the selection of 22 films to participate in the International Short Film Competition at the 2026 Doha Film Festival, scheduled to take place from November 19 to 27.</p> <p>The list includes two films making their world premiere, and 19 films being screened for the first time in the Middle East and North Africa, bringing together diverse cultures,…
Doha: The Doha Film Institute has revealed the 22 films that will compete in the International Short Film Competition at the 2026 Doha Film Festival, set to be held from November 19 to 27. Among the submissions are two films premiering worldwide and 19 others debuting in the Middle East and North Africa, showcasing a variety of cinematic styles and cultural backgrounds.
Standout entries include "For the Competitors" by Federico Luis, a Cannes Golden Palm winner, and "Moments of Happiness" by Shaden Safi Al-Din Tazi, the recipient of the Best Short Film award at the 2026 Venice Film Festival. The competition features a diverse array of international cinema and compelling narratives from the Arab world.
Fatima Hassan Al Rumaithi, the CEO of the Doha Film Institute and Director of the Doha Film Festival, highlighted the significance of short films: "They empower filmmakers to take creative risks, break conventional molds, and present fresh viewpoints. At the Doha Film Festival, we champion this ethos of innovation and exploration."
This year's competition aims to celebrate the breadth of independent cinema, with filmmakers sharing personal stories and global issues. The jury comprises Karim Aitouna, a French-Moroccan producer; Amanda Nell Eu, a Malaysian director; and Kajej Kagami, a Swiss-Rwandan actress and director.
Prizes awarded in the competition include a 20,000 US dollar prize for the Best Short Film, a 12,000 US dollar award for Best Director, and a 7,000 US dollar prize for Best Acting Performance, along with a special commendation certificate. The Doha Film Festival 2026 will take place from November 19 to 27, welcoming filmmakers, audiences, and luminaries from the region and worldwide.
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