Doha Film Festival to Showcase Palestinian Films
The upcoming Doha Film Festival will feature the international competition debut of two Palestinian films: “Through the Sea” directed by Muayad Alayan and “Gaza 13” helmed by Hossam Abu Dan. This marks the first presentation of both films in the Middle East and North Africa region. The festival is scheduled to take place in Doha from November 19 to November 27, 2026, following their premieres at the Toronto International Film Festival.
From Venice to Doha
“Through the Sea” made its global debut during the Venice Film Festival and subsequently screened at the Toronto International Film Festival, before arriving at the Doha Film Festival for its Arabic premiere. This co-production involves collaboration among filmmakers from Palestine, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, receiving support from various film institutions, including the Doha Film Institute and the Hubert Bals Fund.
The narrative of “Through the Sea” follows Kamal, a 60-year-old Palestinian man who receives a court order demanding he repay a substantial amount to national insurance, allegedly owed by his son Wael, who he believes drowned in the Red Sea decades ago. Kamal discovers that the authorities lack any official record of his son’s death, prompting him to embark on a journey to uncover the truth and learn what really happened to his child.
This film, scripted and produced by Muayad Alayan and Rami Alayan, features a talented cast, including Kamel Al-Basha, Amer Halayel, and Rubaa Bilal.
Gaza 13: A Tale from the Heart of Displacement
Opening Film: The Station
The Doha Film Institute has announced that the Yemeni film “The Station,” directed by Sarah Ishaq, will be the opening film of this year’s festival. The film tells the story of a group of Yemeni women who bond at a gas station designed exclusively for women, transforming it into a space of connection and conversation amid wartime challenges. Through its narrative, “The Station” addresses themes of family, solidarity, and resilience in the face of war’s impact.
Fathima Hassan Al-Rumihi, CEO of the Doha Film Institute and Director of the Doha Film Festival, emphasized that selecting “The Station” highlights the desire to present a Yemeni story that originates in local realities while addressing universal human themes. She added that Sarah Ishaq’s filmmaking approach facilitates a deeper understanding of broader humanitarian issues, marking the festival’s opening as an opportunity for audiences to engage with different experiences.
As the Doha Film Festival prepares to commence in November, audiences can expect an enriching selection of films that reflect the complexities of life in the face of adversity, especially through the lens of Palestinian stories. Film enthusiasts should watch for further announcements and details as the festival approaches, anticipating a celebration of resilience and artistry in cinema.