Doha Film Festival 2026

Doha Film Festival 2026 runs from 19 to 27 November 2026 in Doha, Qatar. Organised by the Doha Film Institute, the festival brings together filmmakers, audiences and industry voices for screenings, conversations and events across the city. It suits film lovers, students, creative professionals and travellers who want to see Doha during its busy winter season.

About Doha Film Festival

The Doha Film Institute describes the festival as guided by the belief that cinema creates space for dialogue, reflection and connection. The programme typically features Arab and international films, talks with directors and actors, and events for the regional film industry. For audiences from North Africa, Egypt, Sudan, Iraq and the Levant, it is a chance to see new Arabic-language cinema alongside world titles.

The festival falls during a very busy period in Qatar. The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026 is also under way, and the Formula 1 race at Lusail takes place at the end of the same month, so the city will be lively. Visitors can combine screenings with museum visits to the Museum of Islamic Art, the National Museum of Qatar and Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art.

Doha Film Festival 2026 dates and venue

The official dates for Doha Film Festival 2026 are 19 to 27 November 2026. The festival is held at several locations in Doha, and screening venues and times are published by the Doha Film Institute. Check the official Doha Film Festival page for the programme, ticket releases and any accreditation for industry guests before booking travel.

How to get to Doha for Doha Film Festival

Most visitors fly into Hamad International Airport (DOH), Qatar's main gateway, which has direct links across the Gulf, the Levant, North Africa, Europe and Asia. From the airport, taxis, ride-hailing apps and the Doha Metro Red Line connect to West Bay, Msheireb, Lusail and other districts. The metro and the wider public transport network are the simplest way to move around the city on busy event days, and driving times can rise sharply in the evening peak.

Where to stay

For most visitors the best bases are West Bay and the Corniche for business hotels and metro access, Msheireb and Souq Waqif for a central, walkable old-town feel, The Pearl and Lusail for newer resorts and apartments, and Al Sadd or Al Rayyan for good-value stays near the sports district. Doha's winter season is busy, so book rooms early, especially when several events overlap.

Planning a group trip to Doha Film Festival

A group tour to Doha Film Festival suits film schools, university media departments and cultural associations. A four-night package can cover two or three festival days plus a city tour of Souq Waqif, the Corniche and the main museums. Agencies should wait for the official programme to confirm which days have the strongest line-up for their group.

Industry clients, such as producers and distributors, should check accreditation options with the Doha Film Institute. Because several large events overlap in late November, book rooms and flights early and expect higher demand around the Formula 1 weekend at the end of the month.

Frequently asked questions

When is Doha Film Festival 2026?

Doha Film Festival 2026 runs from 19 to 27 November 2026, according to the Doha Film Institute. Screening times and venues are released in the official programme.

Where is Doha Film Festival held?

The festival takes place at several locations across Doha, Qatar. The Doha Film Institute publishes the list of venues with the programme, so check it before you choose a hotel area.

How can I get Doha Film Festival tickets?

Tickets and passes are released through the official Doha Film Institute website. Popular screenings and talks can sell out, so watch for the programme announcement and book early.

Which airport should I use for a trip to Doha?

Hamad International Airport (DOH) is Qatar's main airport. It is connected to central Doha by the metro, taxis and ride-hailing apps.

Are other events on in Doha at the same time?

Yes. The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026 runs from 19 November, and the Formula 1 race at Lusail is held at the end of November, so demand for hotels and flights will be high.

Travel agencies can book flights for travellers going to Doha Film Festival in the QuickOTA B2B Panel and set their own markup.