Qumra 2026: Doha Film Institute Moves Arab Film Event Online – Projects Revealed

The Doha Film Institute’s (DFI) annual incubator for Arab cinema, Qumra, will proceed as an online event this year, a direct response to the escalating conflict in the Middle East. The decision, announced Tuesday, impacts the 12th edition of the program, originally slated to take place in Doha from March 27 to April 1. Despite the shift, the DFI has unveiled the 49 projects from 39 countries selected to participate in the digital showcase, running from March 27-April 8.

This year’s Qumra lineup includes a diverse range of features and documentaries, reflecting a broad spectrum of storytelling from across the Arab world and beyond. Among the features garnering early attention is “Pipes,” a drama directed by Brooklyn-based Lebanese photographer and director Karim Kassem, whose previous work includes “Thiiird.” The film centers on a retired water authority worker grappling with the responsibility of restoring water access to his village. Likewise highlighted is “Fuxi: Joy in Four Chapters” from Chinese filmmaker and artist Qiu Jiongjiong, an ambitious work weaving together four Sichuan tales through the lens of food and feasting. Chilean director Jairo Boisier Olave’s “Radiesthesia,” a story about a teenager with the ability to locate underground water sources in a drought-stricken region, and “House of the Wind,” the debut feature from France-based Cameroonian filmmaker Bernard Auguste Kouemo Yanghu, which explores themes of loneliness and family in Cameroon’s capital, round out a compelling selection of feature projects.

Navigating Uncertainty: Qumra’s Transition to a Virtual Format

The move to an online format marks a significant departure for Qumra, traditionally a highly-regarded in-person event that draws industry professionals and filmmakers to Doha. The DFI’s decision was prompted by the ongoing U.S.-Israel-Iran war, which has extended into the Gulf region, raising safety concerns for participants. According to the DFI, the online program will prioritize private, one-on-one mentorship sessions for the selected projects. This adjustment echoes similar shifts seen across the entertainment industry in response to geopolitical instability, as reported by Deadline.

The 2026 edition was originally slated to feature Qumra Masters Diego Luna, Gael García Bernal, Alice Diop, Faouzi Bensaïdi, and Gustavo Santaolalla, who were scheduled to lead masterclasses and provide mentorship. Approximately 200 film industry executives were also expected to attend. Even as the in-person masterclasses and networking opportunities are lost, the DFI is committed to maintaining the core function of Qumra: fostering development and mentorship for emerging filmmakers.

A Track Record of Success: Qumra’s Impact on Arab Cinema

Qumra, meaning “camera” in Arabic, functions as a hybrid workshop, co-production market, and festival, providing a crucial platform for Arab filmmakers to refine their projects and connect with potential collaborators. The program’s impact is already evident in the success of past participants. Notably, Hasan Hadi’s “The President’s Cake,” which went through Qumra in 2025, achieved significant recognition, winning the Caméra d’Or at Cannes and receiving a shortlist nomination for Best International Feature Film at the 2026 Academy Awards. This success story underscores Qumra’s role in elevating Arab cinema onto the international stage.

The DFI’s artistic advisor, Palestinian auteur Elia Suleiman, has been instrumental in shaping the program’s vision and curating its selection of projects. Suleiman’s own critically acclaimed work has brought international attention to Palestinian cinema, and his involvement lends further prestige to Qumra.

Qatar’s Resilience Amidst Regional Challenges

DFI CEO Fatma Hassan Alremaihi emphasized that the decision to move Qumra online reflects Qatar’s “resilience and its enduring commitment to continuity, even in the face of significant challenges.” She highlighted the courage and ambition of the selected filmmakers and the urgency of the stories they are telling. Qatar has faced increasing regional tensions, with its airspace experiencing over 150 attacks, including ballistic missiles and drones, since February 28, as detailed by Screen Daily. Despite these challenges, the DFI is determined to continue supporting the development of Arab cinema.

Beyond Features: Documentaries in the Spotlight

The Qumra 2026 selection isn’t limited to fictional narratives. A strong contingent of documentaries will also be presented, offering compelling perspectives on contemporary issues. Mohanad Yaqubi’s “Revolutionaries Never Die” delves into the archives of the late Lebanese journalist Jocelyne Saab, while Tala Hadid’s “Bardi” explores themes of masculinity and transformation through the lens of a traveling brotherhood of horsemen. Qatar-based filmmaker Hamad Salem Al-Hajri’s “When the News Breaks You” provides a firsthand account of the challenges faced by journalists working in conflict zones in the Middle East.

Looking Ahead: Accessing the Qumra Projects

For those interested in learning more about the selected projects, a complete list is available on the Doha Film Institute’s website: www.dohafilm.com. While the physical event has been cancelled, the DFI remains committed to providing a valuable experience for filmmakers and industry professionals through the online platform. The focus will be on facilitating meaningful exchange and mentorship, ensuring that Qumra continues to serve as a vital incubator for Arab cinema, even amidst ongoing regional instability. The DFI has not yet announced plans for a potential return to an in-person format for the 2027 edition, but will continue to monitor the situation in the region.