Qatari cinema finds a global stage at Hamad International Airport

Doha Film Institute (DFI) has partnered with Hamad International Airport (HIA) to inaugurate 'The Screening Room,' a distinctive cultural venture that showcases Made in Qatar films to millions of global travelers. The initiative will be displayed in Concourse D of the airport from today until December 27, offering passengers an opportunity to immerse themselves in authentic Qatari stories told through the lens of local filmmakers.

At the opening ceremony, DFI CEO Fatma Hassan Alremaihi emphasized the importance of bringing Qatar's voices to the global stage, stating, "Every country has voices that deserve to be heard, and cinema amplifies these voices far beyond the places where they begin." She expressed her excitement about welcoming travelers from around the world to discover the people, perspectives, and creative spirit that define Qatar through these films.

DFI Deputy CEO Abdulla Jassim Al-Mosallam highlighted the significance of the partnership in expanding Qatar's cinematic stories beyond traditional venues, enabling them to reach a diverse international audience. He noted that DFI has been championing Qatari filmmakers for the past 16 years, providing platforms for their stories to reach worldwide audiences.

Al-Mosallam described the screening room as another crucial step in the Institute's mission to promote local cinema and expand opportunities for Qatari filmmakers to connect with international viewers.

The official opening ceremony was attended by key figures from DFI, HIA, filmmakers, media representatives, and guests. Al-Mosallam stressed the airport's reputation as a cultural destination, describing it as more than just a transit hub. He added that the screening room would allow passengers to pause during their journeys, discover Qatar's creativity, and experience the country's identity through the eyes of its filmmakers.

DFI Vice President of Terminal and Midfield Operations Ali Darwish expressed the airport's commitment to creating meaningful cultural experiences for passengers while strengthening its collaboration with DFI. He noted that Hamad International Airport is also serving as an official airport partner for this year's Doha Film Festival, further solidifying the relationship between Qatar's aviation and creative sectors.