Submissions for the 2025 cycle are now closed.

We encourage filmmakers interested in future cycles to check this page periodically or follow our social media channels for upcoming announcements.

The Qatari Film Fund supports the professional and creative development of local filmmakers. The fund provides:

• Development support for up to four feature films annually.
• Development, production, and post-production support for up to eight short films per year.

Short Films

Short film projects are eligible for support valued at up to QAR 182,500, which includes development, production, and post-production funding, as well as:

• Mentorship from industry experts
• Equipment and production support from the Institute
• Ongoing collaboration with the Institute throughout all stages of the filmmaking process

The Institute works closely with each selected filmmaker to finalise scripts, establish budgets and schedules, and assemble creative and technical teams.

Feature Films

Feature film treatments or screenplays—at any stage of development—may receive development support valued at up to QAR 182,500, which includes:

• Script development and editing
• Mentorship and bespoke advisory services
• Research, location scouting, budgeting, scheduling, casting and legal support
• Writers’ fees and other development costs

Feature films developed through the fund are eligible for production support, with one project selected for production funding in the following year.

The Institute also offers ongoing training and mentorship through its Learning Initiatives, including workshops and in-house development. Qatari screenwriters, writer-directors and producers are encouraged to share their early-stage ideas with the Institute, which will provide guidance and support in preparing for future submissions to the Qatari Film Fund.

Important Notes

Scripts should be developed with realistic production budgets in mind. Projects with large casts, multiple locations, or 3D animation may present challenges.

For any clarifications prior to applying, please contact: qff@dohafilminstitute.com.

Funding Consideration Process

Eligible projects will be reviewed in three stages:

Stage 1 – Initial Submission
Submit your project with all required materials (as outlined in the funding chart) by email to qff@dohafilminstitute.com. Submissions will be reviewed by a selection committee composed of DFI staff and external experts.

Stage 2 – Interview & Evaluation
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview with the Institute’s development, production, and post-production teams to further assess the project’s needs and potential.

Stage 3 – Final Decision
Applicants will be informed of the final decision.
Unsuccessful applicants may request feedback and recommendations for further development through DFI’s Learning Initiatives.
Successful applicants will collaborate closely with the Institute through all stages of the project—from development through to post-production—to fully realise its creative vision.

Submission Requirements

Mandatory Materials for Short Films

All Projects

• Synopsis (up to 200 words)
• Director's letter of intention
• Director biography (up to 100 words)
• Link(s) to previous work
• Scan of director’s passport

If Narrative

• Draft Script (up to 12 pages)

If Documentary

• Treatment minimum 4 pages

If Animation

• Draft Script (up to 7 pages)
• Storyboard and/or Concept Artwork (if available)

Mandatory Materials for Feature Films

For Narrative

• Logline (up to two sentences)
• Synopsis (up to 200 words)
• Draft script or treatment (10 to 20 pages)
• Director's letter of intention and visual treatment (If available)
• Director/Writer/ Producer biography (up to 100 words)
• Link(s) to previous work
• Scan of director/writer/producer passport