Film Funding
DFI’s co-financing division aims to support local and international filmmakers in the creation of compelling, culturally relevant stories with global resonance and commercial potential.
Kate Hudson and Riz Ahmed in “The Reluctant Fundamentalist”
At the core of DFI’s commitment to co-financing is a desire to build productive working relationships between Gulf countries and the rest of the world; to contribute to a diverse slate of films that entertain, enlighten and engage with global audiences; to aid in the transfer of knowledge to the local community, with the ultimate goal of creating a sustainable film industry in Qatar.
Co-financing Guidelines
DFI welcomes applications for co-financing on a rolling basis throughout the year for projects that originate from within or outside the Gulf region. Projects must be at late stage development, packaging and/or financing stage and actively seeking production finance.
Applications for all kinds of films are welcomed, with no restrictions on genre or story. DFI focuses on projects with a distinctive voice, cultural relevance and commercial viability that have the potential to resonate strongly with both Middle Eastern and international audiences.
International productions do not have to be Arab themed but should have a subject matter that will resonate with Gulf audiences. In addition, the production must enable internship opportunities for aspiring filmmakers from Qatar during all stages of production.
DFI co-financing is based on an equity investment, taking into account both economic and cultural factors. Each co-finance deal is structured individually through negotiation with the film’s producers. DFI may contribute up to 30% of the equity in a project.
DFI’s co-finance slate is diverse and indicative of a true desire to discover and support quality projects with relevance to the region that embody universal themes and have the potential to travel to a wide, international audience.
Decisions are made based on the assessment by DFI’s internal film financing committee with the support of external script consultants. View details on how to submit a project here.