The festival’s International Feature Film Competition features the evocative The President’s Cake and My Father and Qaddafi, reflecting the diversity and vitality of cinema from the Arab world and its growing global influence. It will also showcase ‘Sounds of Saudi’, taking audiences on a musical journey with emerging regional talent, offering an authentic glimpse into their cultural richness, creativity and artistry.
In a press statement, festival director and DFI CEO Fatma Hassan Alremaihi said: “The Institute is a driving force behind a golden age of Arab cinema, championing voices that are shaping the world’s artistic future.
“Our stories carry the weight of history and the promise of the future, and we are excited for audiences at Doha Film Festival to connect with the beauty, complexity and strength of our identity.”
Arab stories showcased at DFF this year reflects the evolving identity of the region’s cinema, from deeply personal reflections to bold artistic explorations. As a cultural catalyst for meaningful exchange through shared artistic experiences, DFF continues to shape a more inclusive global film landscape where Arab perspectives are seen, heard, and recognised
Arab films in the International Feature Film Competition include: ‘The President’s Cake’ (Iraq/USA/Qatar) by Hasan Hadi; and ‘My Father and Qaddafi’ (Libya/Lebanon/Qatar) by Jihan K. The International Feature Film Competition also includes previously announced powerful works from the Arab world, With Hassan in Gaza, Once Upon a Time in Gaza, Khartoum and Cotton Queen.
Sounds of Saudi brings together pioneering female rapper Jara; groundbreaking musician Asayel; and artist and producer DJ Mubarak, offering audiences a window into the Saudi music scene through performances that tackle universal themes of identity, resilience, and transformation.