The Doha Film Institute (DFI) has announced the return of the 12th edition of the Ajyal Film Festival, with film submissions being accepted from May 12. The festival is scheduled to take place from November 16 to 23, 2024, providing a week-long celebration of cinema, culture, and creativity for all generations. Filmmakers from around the world have until September 1 to submit their entries for the Ajyal Competition, comprising a Feature Film Competition and a Short Film Competition. Additionally, the Festival will feature the popular ‘Made in Qatar’ section, highlighting films from Qatar’s creative community. Submissions for this section close on September 15 and are open to locals and Qatar residents.
Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, CEO of the Doha Film Institute, expressed excitement for the upcoming Ajyal Film Festival, emphasizing the importance of bringing together filmmakers, industry professionals, and cinema enthusiasts for a memorable celebration of storytelling and creativity. The Festival, known for showcasing emerging talent and fostering a deeper appreciation for cinema, aims to nurture the next generation of storytellers. With a diverse selection of films from Qatar, the Middle East, and beyond—including features, documentaries, and short films—the Festival offers engaging activities, workshops, and panel discussions to inspire creativity and meaningful conversations about the power of cinema as a tool for social change and cultural exchange.
The Ajyal Film Festival has gained international recognition for its commitment to supporting emerging creatives and showcasing original and compelling films. Participants must adhere to certain criteria for their films to be eligible for competition, including not having been released or publicly exhibited in Qatar prior to the Festival. The festival’s ‘Made in Qatar’ section serves as a platform to celebrate the vibrant and ever-evolving cinema ecosystem of the nation, shining a spotlight on the local film industry. Submissions for this section are open until September 15, welcoming entries from both locals and residents of Qatar.
As the Ajyal Film Festival enters its 12th edition, the Doha Film Institute expresses gratitude for the overwhelming support from audiences and the community, emphasizing their integral role in the success of the event. The Institute remains dedicated to its mission of nurturing young talent and promoting a deeper understanding of cinema. The Festival’s diverse selection of films, activities, and discussions cater to audiences of all ages, aiming to inspire creativity and spark meaningful conversations about the impact of cinema on society and culture. With its upcoming edition, the Ajyal Film Festival continues to be a platform for emerging filmmakers and a celebration of storytelling and creativity.
In conclusion, the Ajyal Film Festival’s 12th edition promises to be an exciting and enriching event, bringing together filmmakers, industry professionals, and cinema enthusiasts for a week-long celebration of cinema, culture, and creativity. The Festival’s diverse program, including the ‘Made in Qatar’ section, offers a platform for emerging creatives to showcase their work and celebrate the nation’s thriving cinema ecosystem. With submissions open until September 1, filmmakers from around the world have the opportunity to participate in the Ajyal Competition and showcase their narrative and documentary films. As the Festival continues to grow and evolve, it remains dedicated to supporting emerging talent, fostering a deeper appreciation for cinema, and inspiring creativity among audiences of all ages.
