The Doha Film Institute has officially opened applications for the 2025 Qatari Film Fund as of January 26, 2025. Interested filmmakers have until February 13, 2025, to submit their applications. The Qatari Film Fund continues its mission to enhance the skills and achievements of Qatari filmmakers through a range of funding and support initiatives.

Each year, the fund supports the development of up to four feature films and eight short films, providing comprehensive assistance in development, production and post-production. Among the feature film projects selected, one standout project will receive production funding in the following year. The application process is conducted in two funding cycles annually.

Short film projects are eligible for funding up to QAR182,500, which includes development, production and post-production support. The fund also offers mentorship opportunities, access to equipment and production assistance. Successful applicants will receive tailored guidance, such as script development, budgeting, scheduling and assembling creative teams, ensuring their films progress smoothly through every stage of production.

Feature film projects, regardless of their level of progress, are also eligible for development funding up to QAR182,500. In addition to financial aid, filmmakers benefit from bespoke development services, including script feedback, research support, location scouting, casting and legal assistance. The fund aims to provide comprehensive support to Qatari directors and screenwriters, encouraging them to refine and realise their creative visions.

The fund places a strong emphasis on nurturing local talent through its Learning Initiatives, which provide creative and technical training, mentorship and filmmaking workshops. Qatari filmmakers are encouraged to submit early-stage film ideas, with the institute offering hands-on assistance throughout the development process and helping prepare applications for funding.

Eligibility criteria for funding include a Qatari national serving as the director, while the screenwriter and producer can be of any nationality. Short films are categorised as narrative (up to 12 minutes), animation (up to seven minutes, 2D only) and documentary (up to 30 minutes). Feature-length films must have a runtime of 80 minutes or longer, and directors applying for feature film funding must have completed at least one short film.

A director may only be attached to one project per funding cycle. Previously submitted projects that did not secure funding are welcome to reapply under current eligibility requirements. However, projects already in production or post-production are not eligible, and no third-party funding is considered. Submissions must include a final or draft script, with documentary projects allowed to submit detailed treatments instead.