The agreement also entails the development of a writers’ incubation lab designed to foster a new generation of writers from the region.
Sony Pictures International Productions (SPIP) has entered into a multi-year partnership with the Film Committee at Media City Qatar to co-finance Arabic-language films from across the Middle East and North Africa. The agreement, revealed during the committee’s three-day Industry Days event held alongside the Doha Film Festival, reflects Qatar’s ambition to establish itself as a major centre for film and television production.
As part of the deal, Sony will expand its presence in Qatar with plans to distribute and co-produce several Arabic-language features.
Steven O’Dell, Head of International Marketing & Distribution at Sony Pictures Entertainment Motion Picture Group, said: “The Middle East is one of the most dynamic and rapidly growing regions in entertainment. Sony Pictures has a long history of working in growing markets, and this new agreement in Qatar reflects our commitment to the region as we continue to bring impactful, locally resonant stories to audiences.”
Under the collaboration, projects may include original screenplays or adaptations of titles from Sony’s library. Each film will be overseen by a jointly approved local producer, a move aimed at strengthening Qatar’s production ecosystem and supporting the broader regional industry. Both SPIP and the Film Committee will share authority over key creative and financial decisions, while the agreement also includes the creation of a writers’ incubation lab to nurture emerging talent.
Film Committee Chairman Hassan Al Thawadi added: “The commitment of Sony Pictures to co-develop and produce Arabic-language films in partnership with the Film Committee reflects the region’s growing prominence in the global film industry and the Global South’s emergence as a true creative force.
“This partnership underscores our shared belief that exceptional stories can come from anywhere – and reach everywhere. It will help elevate a new generation of talented Arabic filmmakers, giving them the platform, resources, and global exposure to share their voices with audiences around the world.”
The SPIP-Film Committee collaboration was one of several major announcements unveiled during Industry Days, which also introduced new incentives and partnerships with Neon and Department M, Miramax and Company 3.
