Movies submitted to the festival must not have been released or publicly exhibited in the State of Qatar or publicly aired before this year's festival.
The Doha Film Institute (DFI) has announced the return of the 12th edition of the Ajyal Film Festival, inviting filmmakers worldwide to submit their entries starting from May 12. Scheduled to unfold from November 16 to 23, 2024, this year’s festival promises a week-long celebration of cinema, culture, and creativity for all generations.
Filmmakers are encouraged to submit their entries for the Ajyal Competition by September 1, with the competition divided into two sections: a Feature Film Competition encompassing narrative and documentary films, and a Short Film Competition showcasing short narratives and documentaries.
The festival’s ‘Made in Qatar’ section, dedicated to highlighting films from the nation’s flourishing creative community, will also make a comeback, celebrating Qatar’s dynamic and ever-evolving cinema landscape. Submissions for the ‘Made in Qatar’ section will close on September 15 and are open to both locals and Qatar residents.
Speaking about the film festival, Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, Chief Executive Officer of the Doha Film Institute, said: “We are thrilled to announce the dates for the Ajyal Film Festival and eagerly anticipate bringing together filmmakers, industry professionals, and cinema enthusiasts for an unforgettable celebration of storytelling and creativity. As we embark on the 12th edition of Ajyal, we are deeply grateful for the overwhelming response from our audiences and community, who have been integral to our journey. Their unwavering support motivates us each year to craft an event that we can all take pride in and enjoy together.”
As one of the major film festivals in the region dedicated to showcasing the talent and originality of emerging creatives, Ajyal remains steadfast in its mission of cultivating a deeper appreciation for cinema and nurturing the next generation of storytellers.
The festival presents a diverse selection of compelling films from Qatar, the Middle East, and beyond, including feature films, documentaries, and short films carefully curated to resonate with audiences of all ages. Ajyal also offers a range of engaging activities, workshops, and panel discussions designed to inspire creativity and spark meaningful conversations about the transformative power of cinema as a tool for social change and cultural exchange.
Participants must adhere to the festival’s criteria for eligibility. Films submitted should not have been released or publicly exhibited in the State of Qatar or publicly aired prior to this year’s festival.
