The crowd-sourced film initiative by Doha Film Institute (DFI) and Qatar Tourism Authority, #DariQatar, which presents an opportunity for the Qatari public to narrate their stories with short videos of life in the country, will mark its world premiere at Katara Drama Theatre today.
#DariQatar received 10,000-plus submissions from more than 200 enthusiasts, representing 22 nationalities.
Among the top contributors are 17 Qatari nationals, who joined others in submitting video clips of the nation, covering six broad themes: joy, adventure, family, traditions, friendship and uniquely Qatar.  The final cut of #DariQatar is created from video footage of over 250 hours, according to a press statement.
#DariQatar, which means ‘My Home Qatar’ in Arabic, is the visual narrative of the nation presented entirely through the eyes of the people of Qatar.
They were encouraged to shoot on practically any aspect of life in the country with the “overwhelming response” highlighted by submissions that talk of their hopes, loves, fears, dreams and everyday realities, the statement noted.
#DariQatar will be an inspirational work that celebrates a year in the life of Qatar, highlighting aspects of the nation such as the National Day celebrations, key national events, sports, business centres - including oil and gas facilities, the modern airport, education and practically every field that documents life in Qatar.
The visuals and personal stories give insights into the diversity of Qatar and serve as honest portraits of life in the nation.
Fatma al-Remaihi, CEO of DFI, said: “We are amazed by the overwhelming response from the community to #DariQatar. We are equally delighted with the quality of the submissions, with the participants presenting us with some captivating vignettes of everyday life. The creativity with which they have approached the subjects in bringing out everyday life from unusual angles and narratives totally surprised our production team.”
Qatari director Ahmad al-Sharif has curated the selection of clips that form the narrative, reflecting the warmth and diversity of the country.
He recalled that the diversity of the submissions allowed him to build a story-line that presented Qatar, its culture, traditions and developments in all their glory.
From introducing viewers to Qatar through visual stories of its tradition and heritage to highlighting the Islamic heritage and culture, #DariQatar will take viewers through to modern Qatar, and incorporates personal stories of people who call Qatar home.
#DariQatar has the support of platinum partners Occidental Petroleum Corporation and United Development Company, developer of The Pearl-Qatar.