Khaleej Times reports that the short documentary Namoos will screen at the upcoming Doha Film Festival as part of a newly created regional showcase. The film chronicles Noora Al Zaabi’s journey as she prepares for her initial competitive camel race. Director Nada Jahed, a Palestinian-Jordanian filmmaker residing in the UAE, utilized a mix of observational footage and reenactment to examine how individual ambition interacts with cultural tradition. The production received backing from the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation.
This selection places Namoos within Cinema Alkhaleej, a programme introduced by the Doha Film Institute to unite narratives from Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, and the UAE. Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, who serves as both the institute’s CEO and the festival director, explained that the initiative aims to provide a common platform for regional voices. She noted that the stories reflect distinct cultures and shared histories, offering emotional truths that cross national boundaries. The festival is scheduled to run from November 19 through November 27.
The opening night will feature the Middle East and North Africa premiere of The Station, a debut feature by Sara Ishaq. The international competition includes 15 films from four continents vying for $185,000 in prizes. According to the report, eleven of the competing titles were supported by institute grants, with seven directed by women. The event also includes the Ajyal Film Competition, which presents 17 films to young audiences judged by peers aged 16 to 25.
Musical performances will accompany the cinematic screenings throughout the nine-day event. The lineup features Grammy-nominated Australian artist RY X performing with the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. Headliners include Palestinian hip-hop group DAM, alongside Iraqi Canadian rapper NARCY and Malaysian artist Yuna. Additional acts span Sudanese and Qatari performers, covering genres from Afrobeat to contemporary Arabic sounds. Free community screenings are also planned across Doha to broaden public access.