Doha:The Doha Film Institute has announced the lineup for the International Short Film Competition at the upcoming Doha Film Festival 2026, scheduled from November 19 to 27. The festival will feature 22 films, including two world premieres and 19 MENA premieres. These films represent a variety of cultures, continents, and cinematic styles, showcasing the work of both emerging and established filmmakers.

According to Qatar News Agency, the selection highlights personal experiences, collective histories, and the intricate realities of a changing world. Among the films featured are "For The Opponents" by Federico Luis, which won the Short Film Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival 2026, and "A Few Moments of Happiness" by Shaden Safieddine Tazi, winner of the Best Short Film in the 2026 Venice Film Festival's Orizzonti section. The films cover diverse stories from regions such as Gaza, Lebanon, Sudan, Yemen, the Peruvian Amazon, and rural Indonesia.

The competition will be judged by an international jury, including French-Moroccan producer Karim Aitouna, Malaysian filmmaker Amanda Nell Eu, and Swiss-Rwandan actress and filmmaker Kayije Kagame. This diverse jury will evaluate the films based on artistic vision, originality, and storytelling to recognize outstanding achievements in short-form cinema.

Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, Festival Director and CEO of Doha Film Institute, emphasized the importance of short films in fostering creativity and innovation, stating that they offer filmmakers the opportunity to challenge conventions and present fresh perspectives. The festival celebrates the diversity and creative strength of independent cinema, and the selected films reflect experiences that resonate beyond their local communities.

Awards to be presented at the festival include the Best Film Award with a prize of $20,000, the Best Director Award for $12,000, the Best Performance Award for $7,000, and a Special Mention Certificate.