The initiative is designed to support the advancement of the regional ecosystem while contributing to the growth of Qatar’s creative economy through intensive labs and specialised workshops throughout 2026.
The Doha Film Institute (DFI) has unveiled a major new initiative to support the growth of creative talent in the region through the launch of specialised vocational training programmes in collaboration with two well-known French institutions, La Fémis and Gobelins Paris. The programmes, developed with the support of Institut Français du Qatar and Qatar Museums, mark a significant step in DFI’s long-term strategy to broaden access to industry-focused education and provide alternative professional pathways for aspiring filmmakers, animators and creative practitioners.
Structured around a practical, project-driven model, the training will offer participants both theoretical grounding and hands-on experience in cinematography and animation, while enabling them to learn directly from internationally recognised experts. By investing in vocational learning and building strong international partnerships, DFI aims to strengthen its leadership role in shaping the region’s cinematic and creative ecosystem. The initiative reflects the Institute’s mission to equip emerging talent with the technical skills, creative discipline and global exposure required to succeed in a rapidly evolving industry.
Speaking about the new initiative, Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, CEO of DFI, said: “Vocational training represents the future of learning. In a fast-changing world, we must empower young people with education that is practical, adaptable, and connected to real opportunities. Our partnerships with La Fémis and Gobelins Paris add to our year-round workshops and mentoring sessions that have, over the years, helped build a thriving creative ecosystem in Qatar and the wider region. Placing skills, creativity, and hands-on experience at the heart of how we prepare the next generation of storytellers, they are pathways into the industry, bridges to global networks, and catalysts for creativity across our region.”
Running through 2026, the initiative aims to support the evolution of the region’s creative ecosystem while contributing to Qatar’s expanding creative economy. The La Fémis Cinematography Certificate Programme will offer a four-month intensive course designed for emerging cinematographers seeking to deepen their artistic and technical foundations. Delivered through a structured progression of theory, practical exercises and both in-person and online sessions, the programme will prepare participants for the responsibilities of a Director of Photography. It is scheduled to launch in June 2026.
Meanwhile, the Gobelins Paris Animation Certificate Programme will provide a nine-month introduction to the fundamentals of animation, covering character performance, visual storytelling and the essential principles of 2D animation. Participants will advance through three pedagogical modules combining lectures, practical workshops in Doha and online follow-ups, with each module concluding in a final project. Graduates will receive a Gobelins Certificate of Achievement. The programme also complements the DFI ToonBoom Certificate, creating a full training pathway for aspiring animators in the region. It is expected to begin in September 2026.
Through these collaborations, DFI and its partners reaffirm their shared commitment to expanding access to world-class creative education and supporting the development of a vibrant film and animation industry in Qatar and beyond. The Institute emphasises that its programmes are designed to empower learners at all levels, connecting them with mentors and peers from around the world. Further details about the new education initiatives will be announced soon.
