Also, Doha festival adds new venue for opening and closing ceremonies and other events.

The Doha Film Institute (DFI) has appointed Abdulaziz Al-Khater [pictured] as its Chief Executive Officer.

For full details and recent funding credits visit

Al-Khater has experience in management, banking, information technology, operations, finance, and logistics. He joins DFI from Al Khalij Commercial Bank and he also held senior positions with International Bank of Qatar and HSBC.

Al-Khater said, “I am looking forward to being part of a growing cultural organisation that has established itself both within the region and internationally as an Institute dedicated to developing Arab talent and creativity. DFI is poised for an exciting era of growth as it continues to evolve and foster the development of local and regional film industries.  I amhonoured to be involved in the continuous evolution of DFI under the leadership of H.E Sheikha Al Mayassa and the DFI Board.”

Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa Bint Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Founder and Chair of DFI, said: “Doha Film Institute has established its credentials as one of the most promising film education establishments in the region, bringing fresh perspectives and opportunities for our talented creative community. The all-encompassing approach of DFI to promote a robust film industry in Qatar has helped us to create a distinct identity not only in the region but also globally. The appointment of Mr Abdulaziz Al-Khater, who has a wealth of management expertise, will be strong value addition in driving the future growth of the Institute. I also want to thank Acting CEO and DFI Board Member Mr. Mansour Ibrahim Al-Mahmoud in leading DFI during its transition phase and actively supporting strategies to build creative value and sustainable impact.”

The Acting CEO had been DFI board member Mansour Ibrahim Al-Mahmoud.

In other Doha news, the Doha Tribeca Film Festival has added Souq Waqif as a festival hub. DTFF runs Nov 17-24. The souq will host the opening and closing ceremonies and other industry events and receptions. The other festival venue, Katara, will continue to be the screening hub of the festival and also the host for Family Days. Souq Waqif includes five hotels: Arumaila Hotel, Al Jasra, Al Mirqab, Al Najada and Musheireb.

Topics